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Patriots could be in the running to sign a familiar face based on latest report

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Sophie Weller | Last updated 3/19/24

There is one very talented cornerback who is on the market. And he already has a history with the New England Patriots.

Stephon Gilmore, who was with the Patriots from 2017 to 2020, is a free agent and apparently a reunion isn't out of the question. However, they could face some competition from Gilmore's last team.

MassLive's Karen Guregian reports that Gilmore is "open to all options" this offseason.

"While Stephon Gilmore’s stated preference is to return to the Dallas Cowboys, where he provided a much-needed boost for Jerry Jones’ defense last season, a source told MassLive the veteran corner was open to all options, including another go-round with the Patriots," Guregian wrote.

Per @kguregian:

"While Stephon Gilmore’s stated preference is to return to the Dallas Cowboys, where he provided a much-needed boost for Jerry Jones’ defense last season, a source told MassLive the veteran corner was open to all options, including another go-round with the…
— Sophie Weller (@sophieewellerr) March 19, 2024

Gilmore would be the perfect compliment to young cornerback Christian Gonzalez who showed promise during his rookie season. He's familiar with the Patriot way and could help mentor Gonzalez to reach his full potential.

And fans are certainly excited about this idea.

Gilmore back? With Gonzo?! Oh man that secondary would be nails https://t.co/Iq8A4LHlwr
— Tanker Ben (@benmyfriend1) March 19, 2024

Gilmore began his career with the Buffalo Bills as a first round pick in the 2012 NFL Draft. He spent five years in Orchard Park before going to an AFC East rival.

The Patriots signed Gilmore in 2017 to a five year, $65 million contract that included $31 million guaranteed and a signing bonus of $18 million.

He remained in New England for four seasons, but was traded to the Carolina Panthers in October during the 2021 season. Following that season, he signed with the Indianapolis Colts and played there in 2022 before moving to Dallas in 2023.

Across his 12 seasons, Gilmore has a total of 561 tackles, 31 interceptions 140 passes defended, two touchdowns, eight forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and one sack.

And not to mention, he also won a Super Bowl with the Patriots during the 2018 season after New England defeated the Los Angeles Rams in Super Bowl LIII.

So since he's got some good memories in Foxborough, it makes sense why he'd want to return.

Let's see if the Patriots can get a deal done.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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