Stephen Gilmore, a Super Bowl champion and former NFL Defensive Player of the Year, remains a free agent this offseason at 34 years old. Despite a 13-year career, the cornerback is not ready to retire but is waiting for the ideal team fit before signing. Speaking on “The Money Down” podcast, Gilmore emphasized his desire to continue playing only if the situation feels right, highlighting his love for the game and confidence in his ability to contribute.
Since leaving the New England Patriots in 2021, Gilmore has played for four different teams, including the Carolina Panthers, Indianapolis Colts, Dallas Cowboys, and most recently, the Minnesota Vikings, where he started 15 games in 2023. Last season, quarterbacks targeted him 91 times as the primary defender, allowing a 60.4% completion rate, ranking around 16th among defenders with at least 80 targets. He gave up five touchdowns, the most since 2018—the same year he helped the Patriots win Super Bowl LIII.
Even at 34, Gilmore proved his value with 56 tackles, eight pass deflections, and interceptions while missing two games due to a hamstring injury. Over his career, he earned five Pro Bowl nods, two first-team All-Pro selections, and was the 2019 NFL Defensive Player of the Year. He has accumulated 117 passes defended, 32 interceptions, and over 600 tackles in 173 career starts.
Gilmore also had a meeting with the Cowboys in April but left without a trade.
Fan Take: Stephen Gilmore’s decision to wait for the perfect team spot highlights the importance of fit and opportunity for veteran players in today’s NFL. His presence on the field, when rightfully utilized, can still shift defensive dynamics and bring valuable experience to any contender.
