Stephon Gilmore Still Available For Trade?

The Patriots have deviated from their usual free agency patience, handing out a number of lucrative deals this week. Stephon Gilmore received such treatment four years ago, but it is not certain he will link up with the host of UFAs the Pats have added this year.

After discussing Gilmore in trades last year, the Patriots are still believed to have the former Defensive Player of the Year on the block, Dan Graziano and Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com note (Insider link).

New England set a high asking price for Gilmore last year, seeking a first-round pick for the standout cover man. No team seriously approached that cost, and the market may be worse for Gilmore going into his contract year. Although he is due just $7MM in base salary next season, the expectation is a team trading for Gilmore would need to redo his deal.

The Pats were expected to discuss Gilmore’s contract, but it is unclear if the sides have reached a resolution. The sides agreed to a substantial pay bump for the 2020 season, but Gilmore remains attached to the five-year, $65MM contract he signed in 2017. Despite spending plenty of cash this week, the Patriots still have the cap room to retain Gilmore. But his hopes at an extension appear to be an issue.

The Pats have Jonathan Jones signed long-term, and they are expected to tender RFA J.C. Jackson. Jason McCourty is a free agent. New England also agreed to terms with safety/corner Jalen Mills this week. While Gilmore is not coming off his best season — one marred by a COVID-19 contraction — he is still one of the NFL’s best corners. Gilmore will turn 31 this year, so his prospects at landing a Jalen Ramsey– or Tre’Davious White-type extension will be minimized by his experience level.