The New England Patriots, fresh off a Super Bowl appearance just a few short months ago, have learned that one of their former champions has hung up his cleats for good. The news first surfaced on Thursday afternoon.
Here are the surprising details.
New England Patriots, Mike Vrabel, NFL
Feb 8, 2026; Santa Clara, CA, USA; New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel during Super Bowl LX against the Seattle Seahawks at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Former Patriots Super Bowl Champion Stephon Gilmore Retires From The NFL
Gilmore took to social media to make the retirement from the league official:
To my first love, Football —
As a young, scrappy kid from Rock Hill South Carolina with humble beginnings, the eldest of 6 – you gave me focus, opportunity, strength, and friends to last a lifetime.
From my first game with Finley Road Falcons to two Super Bowls, multiple Pro Bowls, and a Defensive Player of the Year Award, you taught me the invaluable lesson of working hard and believing in myself.
To my wife and kids, thank you for making it possible for me to chase my dreams.
To my parents, thank you for raising me to be the man I am today.
To my coaches, thank you for pouring into me.
And to the fans—thank you for your support. I have had an incredible 13 years in the League, and I cannot wait to see what this next chapter holds.
GillyLock Out.🔒 ✌🏾
Feb 3, 2019; Atlanta, GA, USA; New England Patriots cornerback Stephon Gilmore (24) celebrates with teammates after intercepting a pass against the Los Angeles Rams during the fourth quarter of Super Bowl LIII at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-Imagn Images
Feb 3, 2019; Atlanta, GA, USA; New England Patriots cornerback Stephon Gilmore (24) celebrates with teammates after intercepting a pass against the Los Angeles Rams during the fourth quarter of Super Bowl LIII at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
Stephon Gilmore’s Career Statistics
Gilmore was a first round draft pick of the Buffalo Bills (10th overall) in the 2012 NFL Draft. He would go on to play for five years in Buffalo and four years with the New England Patriots where he won Super Bowl LIII during the 2018-19 season.
He also spent one year with the Dallas Cowboys, Indianapolis Colts, Minnesota Vikings, and Carolina Panthers. His final career statistics are as follows:
180 career games (173 starts)
32 career interceptions
2 Pick sixes
149 pass defelections
8 forced fumbles (3 fumble recoveries)
617 total tackles
He is one of the best to ever play the position. Congratulations on your reitrement!
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