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Patriots legend putting off retirement for another playing opportunity

Patriots legend putting off retirement for another playing opportunity

USA Today07-07-2025
Former New England Patriots cornerback Stephon Gilmore still has the urge to play football, despite remaining unsigned after his one-and-done run with the Minnesota Vikings last season.
The former NFL Defensive Player of the Year turns 35 years old in September, and he is currently looking for the right opportunity to step back on the field. Perhaps something will emerge during training camp for a team in need of a reliable veteran player with a Super Bowl title, five Pro Bowls and two First-Team All-Pro nods on his resume.
"I want to play this year, it's just got to be the right situation," Gilmore said, when appearing on The Money Down Podcast, via NFL.com's Bobby Kownack. "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."
Gilmore was one of the most prolific defensive players in Patriots history.
He is the only player in franchise history to win the NFL Defensive MVP award. Since leaving New England in 2021, he has played for the Carolina Panthers, Indianapolis Colts, Dallas Cowboys and Vikings. Perhaps another cornerback-needy team will come calling at some point.
Gilmore would be a good depth addition and solid veteran presence in an NFL locker room. And who knows? Maybe he still has a big play or two left in the tank to make a difference.
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