With just a few weeks left until the Patriots return to Foxboro for the start of their first training camp under Mike Vrabel, there is still some work that could be done to the roster to put their efforts over the top. Fortunately, they have the cap space to afford a couple of moves, even a blockbuster trade, which remains a possibility. Or they could reunite with an old friend to boost their secondary for the 2025 season.
Although an aging cornerback might not be at the top of the list, there's plenty of reason for Vrabel and Co. to strongly consider signing cornerback Stephon Gilmore. The experienced veteran became a superstar during his years in New England, even earning the Defensive Player of the Year award for the 2019 season, and is still a free agent going into the summer.
The Patriots' secondary is perhaps at its strongest in some years, with Christian Gonzalez expected to remain the CB1, alongside the new addition of Carlton Davis. The rest of the depth chart is impressive too, with rising star Alex Austin becoming the most noteworthy of the group.
However, Gilmore declaring he's looking for the right situation for next season puts New England squarely in the mix for all the right reasons.
The Patriots could welcome Stephon Gilmore back home in a triumphant reunion
It would be fair to argue that it was a mistake for Bill Belichick to trade Gilmore in 2021 after an unnecessary contract dispute. He has continued to play at a high level in the years since, spending time with the Panthers, Colts, Cowboys, and Vikings.
But now, he's a free agent and spoke about what he wants in his next team during a recent appearance on Super Bowl hero James White's show, "The Money Down Podcast," and it sounds like the Patriots could be in the mix.
"I want to play this year, it's just got to be the right situation. 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."
Despite not naming the Patriots specifically, Gilmore has stated in the past that he would love to return to Foxboro before the end of his career. Because he will be turning 35 at the start of the upcoming season, it's fair to assume he's nearing retirement, making Foxboro a sensible next destination.
Given his age, he has experienced a dip in performance, but it's nothing to be alarmed about, and he could make for a great addition to the Patriots' secondary. Gilmore has already stated that he has a relationship with Gonzalez and serves as a mentor to him, so having him in the locker room would be even better.
Additionally, concerns about Davis' injury history make having a player like Gilmore waiting in the wings a brilliant idea. And, who doesn't love a good reunion story? The 2025 offseason has been full of that already with the returns of Vrabel and Josh McDaniels. Why not add another?
Gilmore would make a lot of sense for several reasons, with his leadership and mentorship being among the top reasons. He's experienced a lot in the NFL, including playoff runs and Super Bowls, and could be an invaluable voice in the locker room. It's at the very least something both sides should consider, especially if he remains unsigned as training camp is underway.
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