December 23, 2024

BREAKING NEWS: Former patriots star man sets to return

As the New England Patriots gear up for the offseason, one position quietly looms as a potential area of concern: cornerback, specifically the boundary cornerback spot following the departure of J.C. Jackson. While not as glaring a need as quarterback, tackle, or receiver, the Patriots could fill that void with a familiar face.

The Patriots cannot afford another season of makeshift solutions at cornerback. One potential solution lies in the return of former Patriot and defensive player of the year, Stephon Gilmore. Gilmore could serve as a stabilizing force in the secondary while nurturing the development of promising talents like Christian Gonzalez. The young cornerback has already drawn comparisons to Gilmore, making the veteran’s return all the more enticing.

Financially, the Patriots are well-positioned to accommodate Gilmore’s return, with projections indicating a one-year deal in the range of $7 million. Such a move would shore up the cornerback position and provide invaluable mentorship to the team’s young defensive backs.

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Gilmore’s recent stint with the Dallas Cowboys showcased his adaptability and reliability, even in an unforeseen role as the team’s No. 2 cornerback following an injury to the Cowboys top CB, Trevon Diggs. However, Gilmore’s impressive tenure in Dallas may have priced him out of the Cowboys’ plans, paving the way for a potential reunion with the Patriots.

The Athletic’s Jeff Howe indicated that the Patriots were actively trying to trade for Gilmore before the start of the 2023 season when the Colts ultimately shipped Gilmore to Dallas. Gilmore was also very open to an extension with the Patriots before the 2021 season, so there has seemingly always been a mutual attraction between the two sides.

Initially, L’Jarius Sneed emerged as a viable option to complement Christian Gonzalez, possibly forming a formidable duo. Patriots Nation was buzzing at the thought of adding the two-time Super Bowl champ. However, hopes of acquiring Sneed were dashed when the Kansas City Chiefs placed the franchise tag on him. Despite reports of the Patriots inquiring about a trade, it appears the pursuit was more of a formality, given the steep asking price that would include surrendering a valuable top-50 draft pick. Consequently, the Patriots must pivot their attention elsewhere.

With Sneed out of the equation, Gilmore presents a unique combination of familiarity, talent, and leadership that could bolster the Patriots secondary. His potential return to New England represents a strategic move to address a positional need and avoid the constant patchwork necessary at the position in 2023.

The spotlight now shines on Christian Gonzalez, who is expected to assume the mantle of the team’s primary boundary cornerback. Meanwhile, Jonathan Jones could either remain outside or shift back to the slot, with Myles Bryant‘s impending free agency adding another layer of uncertainty to the mix. Should Jones return to his slot duties, the Patriots must find a new starting boundary cornerback or perhaps even depth at the position.

 

 

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