'I want to play this year' - Former DPOY could reunite with Dallas Cowboys, but he just made it clear it won't be an easy task

The Dallas Cowboys need cornerback help. Period. The team is dealing with multiple injuries at the position and lost standout nickel Jourdan Lewis in free agency. 

As of right now, DaRon Bland is in line to start—potentially in the slot based on where he lined up during Cowboys OTAs and minicamp—and while we have some early favorites to join him on the defensive backfield, everything else is in the air. 

But there's a chance the Cowboys get some outside help before the start of the 2025 NFL season. And if they do, one of the top options is reuniting with former All-Pro and 2019 Defensive Player of the Year: Stephon Gilmore. 

Stephon Gilmore is looking for 'the right situation' to play in 2025

Stephon Gilmore was on The Money Down Podcast over the weekend and while most of the show focused on the veteran's story, he was inevitably asked about his plans for the year. And while he left not doubt he wants to keep his career going, he also made it clear he's being picky when it comes to choosing where he's headed to next.

"Yeah, I want to play this year, it's just got to be the right situation," Gilmore told The Money Down Podcast. "It's got to be the right situation for me. I'm not just gonna sign anywhere [. . .] I still love the game. I still can contribute. It's just got to be the right place."

Could the Cowboys be the right team for Gilmore? 

It's not clear what Gilmore means by the right situation. It could very well be all about the financials of the deal. In that case, the Cowboys are likely not going to live up to his expectations but they could do just enough. Gilmore took under $5 million on the Minnesota Vikings' cap last year. 

Where the Cowboys could have a legit advantage at landing Gilmore is in playing opportunity. The former DPOY would be an instant upgrade to the starting lineup even though his coverage slightly declined in 2024. 

And in a way, he would fit right at home with Matt Eberflus' scheme. The Dan Quinn-led Cowboys ran plenty of Cover 3, and so did Eberflus in his last coaching stop.

As far as wanting a chance to win, Gilmore could help the Cowboys reach another level of expectations. Head coach Brian Schottenheimer's team might not be perceived as a top NFC contender but if the offense clicks with new WR George Pickens, it's a playoff candidate squad. 

If Gilmore is chasing a Super Bowl ring, his best bet might be elsewhere. But he's not headed to a 4-13 team or anything like that by choosing Dallas. The Cowboys will be in the mix come December. 

One more thing: It's clear Gilmore likes the area as he was at The Star in Frisco, Texas, in April, though the Cowboys claimed it wasn't a free agency visit.