Patriots Lose Out on Reunion as Former Star Inks Deal With Colts

JC Jackson left the New England Patriots in free agency, leaving a big void on Bill Belichick’s roster. The Patriots needed a strong cornerback option and many thought Stephon Gilmore would fill the empty spot. He knows the system and has been part of many winning teams. Well, the Patriots didn’t think they’d lose on the reunion with their former player.

Ian Rapoport from NFL.com reported that Gilmore agreed to sign a two-year deal with the Indianapolis Colts. Gilmore visited the Colts and I guess they like his potential. He is the 2019 Defensive Player of the Year after all.

Former NFL Defensive Player of the Year and five-time Pro Bowl CB Stephon Gilmore is signing with the #Colts in a 2-year deal, source said. The former #Patriots and #Panthers star was on a visit this week and now lands in Indy.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 15, 2022

Patriots lose out on the reunion with their star cornerback despite Matthew Judon’s efforts

Gilmore was in a tricky situation with the Patriots in 2021. He sustained an injury and missed a big chunk of the 2020 NFL season. The Patriots didn’t offer him a long-term deal, but Gilmore was patiently waiting for his chance. His recovery went well and he joined his teammates in training camp. However, the Patriots decided to move on from him and sent Gilmore to the Carolina Panthers. Gilmore is one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL, but the Patriots got a sixth-rounder in the trade.

The veteran cornerback saw action in eight games for the Panthers. He used his time to recover and played eight games and two starts, delivering 2 interceptions.

Matthew Judon wanted Gilmore to join the Patriots again. Everyone was hoping for a big reunion, but Gilmore took his talents somewhere else. He was looking for a big deal and the Patriots weren’t going to pay him big money.

The Colts appreciate Gilmore’s great career and the experience he gained over the years. He will probably be their starter.

When it comes to the Patriots, they will have to find a cornerback this offseason. They may get one in the 2022 NFL Draft. Belichick brought Malcolm Butler back and Matthew Judon really thought that Gilmore would at least entertain the idea of re-signing with the Patriots. Well, this won’t happen and Gilmore will try his chances with the Colts.