Waiting For The Right Opportunity
Former Defensive Player of the Year Stephon Gilmore isn’t calling it quits just yet. Now a free agent ahead of what would be his 14th NFL season, the veteran cornerback remains hopeful about continuing his career.
“I want to play this year, it’s just got to be the right situation,” he said on The Money Down podcast. “It’s got to be the right situation for me. I’m not just gonna sign anywhere. I still love the game. I still can contribute, it’s just got to be the right place.”
A Decorated Career With Recent Challenges
Gilmore is a five-time Pro Bowler and two-time first-team All-Pro. His most recent Pro Bowl appearance came in 2021, while his last All-Pro honor was in 2019, the same year he earned the league’s Defensive Player of the Year award.
However, in his age-34 season with the Vikings, Gilmore saw a decline in his coverage performance. His 60.4 Pro Football Focus (PFF) grade in that category was the third-lowest of his career. Despite that dip, he remained a reliable presence on the field, contributing one interception, nine passes defensed, and 56 tackles to Minnesota’s fifth-ranked scoring defense.
A Veteran Presence And Proven Performer
Though he may have lost a step, Gilmore still offers experience and leadership. With 173 career starts, he continues to be capable of delivering game-changing plays. Searching for his next team is familiar territory for him.
After starting his career with five seasons in Buffalo and four in New England, Gilmore has moved frequently since 2020. From 2021 to 2024, he has played for the Panthers, Colts, Cowboys, and Vikings.
What’s Next for Gilmore?
As Gilmore approaches his 35th birthday in September, the question remains: What would constitute the right situation for the seasoned defensive back?
A return to a former team? A Super Bowl contender? Or perhaps a team dealing with an injury during training camp? In 2024, Gilmore played the majority of his 772 snaps as an outside cornerback but also lined up in the box on 109 plays. His 77.6 PFF run coverage grade ranked 22nd among cornerbacks. These numbers could prompt some teams to consider him for a safety or hybrid role, if he’s open to that transition.
Uncertainty surrounds Gilmore’s next move, but if the right opportunity arises, one that fits both his goals and a team’s needs, he’ll be ready. If that match is found, Gilmore will line up for a 14th NFL season, prepared once again to make quarterbacks pay.
