Stephon Gilmore to make Panthers debut vs. Falcons

The Carolina Panthers activated cornerback Stephon Gilmore from the physically unable to perform list Saturday, paving the way for the four-time Pro Bowler to make his season debut in Week 8 against the Atlanta Falcons.

Gilmore, 31, was acquired via trade from the New England Patriots earlier in October, but hasn't yet played for the Panthers while rehabbing a quad injury. In four seasons with the Patriots, Gilmore earned three Pro Bowl nods and AP Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2019. Prior to that, Gilmore spent the first five seasons of his career with the Buffalo Bills, who drafted him with the No. 10 overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft.

In Carolina, Gilmore joins a defense that has already been an impressive unit without his help. Only the Buffalo Bills and Cleveland Browns have allowed fewer yards per game than the Panthers.

The Patriots parted ways with Gilmore in an attempt to clear salary cap space by cutting ties with his pricy contract. It only cost Carolina a sixth-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft to acquire Gilmore, although he's currently set to become a free agent in 2022.