Patriots reportedly open to trading two-time All-Pro CB Stephon Gilmore

New England Patriots cornerback Stephon Gilmore won't play the first six games of the 2021 season after being placed on the physically unable to perform list. However, he might never see the Gillette Stadium field as a member of the Patriots again. 

According to ESPN's Dan Graziano, the Patriots remain "open" to trading Gilmore this season. 

"Gilmore is known to be unhappy with his contract, which is up after the season," Graziano writes. "While there was optimism a month or so ago that he and the Patriots would get something worked out, they still have not."

Graziano lists the New Orleans Saints as a destination for the former Defensive Player of the Year because they have a need at the position. 

It's unclear who would be sent to New England in return. However, Saints wide receiver Michael Thomas has been included in trade rumors over the last several months, and he would instantly become one of rookie quarterback Mac Jones's top targets if moved. 

With Gilmore sidelined, the Patriots cornerback group faces some uncertainty. Fourth-year veteran J.C. Jackson is entering a contract year and will be the team's top CB entering Week 1. The No. 2 spot could be difficult to fill as Jalen Mills struggled during the preseason and JoeJuan Williams has yet to prove himself.