ATLANTA, GEORGIA - FEBRUARY 03: Stephon Gilmore #24 of the New England Patriots catches a fourth quarter interception on a pass intended for Brandin Cooks #12 of the Los Angeles Rams during Super Bowl LIII at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on February 03, 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)

Former Patriots Star Stephon Gilmore Announces Retirement

Originally posted on The Spun | By Tzvi Machlin | Last updated Apr 2, 2026 4:18 PM ET

One of the most decorated cornerbacks of the last decade is hanging up his cleats as five-time Pro Bowler Stephon Gilmore has announced his retirement.

Taking to Instagram on Thursday, Gilmore thanked everyone who played a part in his career, which included five Pro Bowls, two All-Pro selections and the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award in 2019.

“To my first love, Football -

As a young, scrappy kid from Rock Hill South Carolina with humble beginnings, the eldest of 6 - you gave me focus, opportunity, strength, and friends to last a lifetime.

From my first game with Finley Road Falcons to two Super Bowls, multiple Pro Bowls, and a Defensive Player of the Year Award, you taught me the invaluable lesson of working hard and believing in myself.

To my wife and kids, thank you for making it possible for me to chase my dreams.

To my parents, thank you for raising me to be the man I am today.

To my coaches, thank you for pouring into me. And to the fans-thank you for your support. I have had an incredible 13 years in the League, and I cannot wait to see what this next chapter holds.

GillyLock Out."

Five-time Pro-Bowl CB Stephon Gilmore announced on IG that he is retiring from the NFL. pic.twitter.com/qaMrO2HAKY
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 2, 2026

Gilmore's Epic Run

Gilmore career as one of the NFL's premier cover corners. Drafted 10th overall in the 2012 NFL Draft by the Buffalo Bills out of South Carolina, Gilmore quickly developed into a top defensive back, earning his first Pro Bowl nod in Buffalo in 2016. He elevated his profile even further after signing with the New England Patriots in 2017, becoming the shutdown centerpiece of Bill Belichick’s defense.

Gilmore played a critical role in New England’s victory in Super Bowl LIII and was named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 2019 after recording six interceptions and a league-leading 20 passes defended.

After his Patriots tenure, Gilmore was traded to the Carolina Panthers in 2021, then signed with the Indianapolis Colts in 2022 and later joined the Dallas Cowboys, continuing to provide veteran leadership and high-level play. Throughout his career, he was widely regarded as one of the NFL’s most technically sound and reliable cornerbacks.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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