New England Patriots release All-Pro corner for cap flexibility

The New England Patriots have released star defensive back Stephon Gilmore in a stunning move, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

“A stunner: Patriots are releasing four-time Pro Bowl cornerback Stephon Gilmore, who was eligible to come off the Physically Unable to Perform List after Week 6, source tells ESPN,” tweeted Schefter.

Schefter mentions that the move was motivated due to contract concerns, tweeting the two sides “could not agree to terms on a restructured contract and now the two sides are going their own ways.”

“Patriots were roughly $54,000 under the cap and needed financial flexibility, which this move impacts. Gilmore had a $7 million base salary this season in what is the final season of his expiring contract,” added Schefter.

Finally, plenty of teams are expected to be interested in the 2019 Defensive Player of the Year. Schefter mentions many teams are expected to have interest, and the market will be robust.

Gilmore was drafted by the Buffalo Bills, but left for New England via free agency in 2017. On Bill Belichick’s squad, he blossomed into the league’s top cornerback. Moreover, he won a Super Bowl and was recognized as the best defensive player in the entire league.

Now, a contending team will get a gigantic boost to their roster.

Gilmore: ‘It is with mixed emotions that I announce my goodbye’

Following the news of his release, Gilmore took to Twitter to pen his goodbye to Pats Nation.

“It is with mixed emotions that I announce my goodbye to this great fan base,” wrote Gilmore. “We enjoyed so much success together and you have been an incredible inspiration for my individual achievements. Thank you for supporting this Rock Hill kid and allowing him to achieve his NFL dreams.

“To Mr. Kraft, the coaches, and the organization thank you for providing me with this platform and allowing me to be part of greatness. Most of all I want to thank my teammates who lined up next to me every Sunday with one goal in mind. Those moments on and off the field will never be forgotten.”

Now, Stephon Gilmore turns his attention to the next stage of his career. One team being mentioned as a fit is the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who are in dire need of secondary help.