Packers rumors: Stephon Gilmore wants to come to Green Bay
Stephon Gilmore would be a natural fit for the Green Bay Packers and the two-time All-Pro cornerback reportedly has interest in playing in Lambeau.
New England shockingly releasing cornerback Stephon Gilmore on Tuesday sent the NFL world into a frenzy. And immediately, the talk became about the possible landing spots for the former Defensive Player of the Year. Naturally, the Green Bay Packers were mentioned as a possible suitor.
That was only furthered by the fact that star Packers wide receiver Davante Adams commented on Gilmore’s farewell post on Instagram by saying “Call me.” And apparently, Gilmore has been in contact with numerous players on the Green Bay roster about potentially joining the team.
MMQB insider Albert Breer appeared on 98.5 The Sports Hub and said that Stephon Gilmore “wants to play for the Packers” and noted that there may have already been some communication about a potential deal that would land the cornerback in Green Bay already.
The Packers seem like the favorite to sign or land Stephon Gilmore
Now, it should be noted that Gilmore has not officially been released yet — that won’t take place until 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday. It’s entirely possible that the Patriots could find a trade partner before then and, if so, Greg Bedard of Boston Sports Journal noted that the Packers are considered the favorites. He also said Gilmore and his agent control the situation and, while a trade could be possible, Green Bay would be the preferred destination.
Landing Gilmore would make a ton of sense for the Packers. Jaire Alexander has emerged as a bonafide star but he’s been banged up. Meanwhile, the team is relying heavily on rookie Eric Stokes, who has admittedly played well, and veteran Kevin King, who the team was all but forced to re-sign just to have familiar depth.
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Alexander and Gilmore as the 1-2 punch would be lethal for the Packers secondary. This defense still has its share of flaws, at linebacker particularly, but their pass defense can be fierce. And with Za’Darius Smith out for the foreseeable future, that means the coverage unit has to be at its best. Adding Gilmore would no doubt ensure that’s the case once he’s eligible to return from the PUP list after Week 6.