Stephon Gilmore Role at Patriots Training Camp Sends Clear Message

The New England Patriots have excellent performance in training camp. Several players miss practice, including one veteran. Stephon Gilmore didn’t join his Patriots teammates in training camp. Wonder why?

There were several discussions about veteran players. Head coach Bill Belichick had to deal with so many distractions. Some of his rookies didn’t get their deal until last minute. N’Keal Harry requested a trade through his agent and Gilmore was dealing with an injury. Oh, yes, he was also waiting for a new deal.

Harry is fine with being a Patriot and Gilmore is still dealing with his injury. He is set to earn $7 million in his final year with the Patriots.

Gilmore wants to be a Patriot. Unfortunately, fans are still asking questions about his next move. Will the former 2019 Defensive Player of the Year stay with the Patriots.

“Right now, he’s ‘coach Steph.’"#Patriots CB Stephon Gilmore is helping behind the scenes amid his recovery and contract disputehttps://t.co/ye8stncrpN pic.twitter.com/ANGkZU6BYt

— Andrew Callahan (@_AndrewCallahan) August 4, 2021

Stephon Gilmore supports his Patriots teammates in training camp

The veteran recovers from quad surgery and Belichick has yet to make a decision on his contract. However, he got a new role in training camp. Mentor? What does that mean?

Here’s what Mike Pellegrino said of Gilmore:

“Love Steph, great guy. Right now, he’s ‘Coach Steph.’ He’s working the other part of his game. Working off the field, trying to get better, he’s rehabbing. He’s getting there. Taking it one day at a time, but in the meantime, he always helps the younger guys. He’s doing his part. Being a good teammate. He’s been great in the room.”

“Steph, he leads in his own way, which is great. Don’t try and make anybody who they’re not. He talks, guys listen, which is great. Not going to ask him to do anything more than what he does.”

Patriots CB coach Mike Pellegrino called Stephon Gilmore “Coach Steph.” Said Gilmore has gone out of his way to help the cornerbacks since he’s been working his way back to the field. pic.twitter.com/7Q0s2Tr5Eg

— Mark Daniels (@MarkDanielsPJ) August 4, 2021

Gilmore is going a good job with his teammates.

I guess the Gilmore saga is getting close to the end. If Gilmore wanted out. He would have missed the chance to work with his teammates behind the scenes.

Gilmore is a rare player and an excellent leader. The Patriots should really try to keep him around. Does he deserve a big pay?