Stephon Gilmore Delivers Emotional Message to Patriots Nation After Release

Veteran cornerback Stephon Gilmore is no longer part of the New England Patriots and he shared a statement following the release. The Patriots organization is parting ways with the 2019 Defensive Player of the Year. Gilmore had a key role for the Patriots, but he has to go this time.

Here’s what Gilmore wrote in his final goodbye:

Pats Nation,

It is with mixed emotions that I announce my goodbye to this great fan base. We enjoyed so much success together and you have been an incredible inspiration for my individual achievements. Thank you for supporting this Rock Hill kid and allowing him to achieve his NFL dreams.

To Mr. Kraft, the coaches, and the organization, thank you for providing me with this platform and allowing me to be part of greatness. Most of all I want to thank my teammates who lined up next to me every Sunday with one goal in mind. Those moments on and off the field will never be forgotten.

Sincerely,

Stephon

Stephon Gilmore got emotional following the Patriots release

Both parties tried to negotiate a deal prior to the release but they didn’t click. Gilmore had his own plans and Belichick had plans, too.

Gilmore spent the offseason on the physically unable to perform list and he was supposed to see action in Week 6. Well, he won’t be playing with the Patriots in 2021. The veteran skipped voluntary OTAs but showed up in training camp.

I guess these negotiations got stuck in the middle of nowhere. Gilmore is entering free agency and he has attracted the attention of many teams across the NFL. When healthy, he is an excellent contributor. He has great skills and even greater experience. Can you predict his next home?

Bill Belichick may not really like his current cornerback unit but he sure has a backup plan. He always does. The Patriots lost a valuable player and NFL analysts believe that Gilmore may join Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers need a cornerback and Gilmore is a good fit.