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Stephon Gilmore released: 5 NFL contenders that need CB on the roster now

By Cody Williams

FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - OCTOBER 18: Stephon Gilmore #24 of the New England Patriots warms up prior to the game against the Denver Broncos at Gillette Stadium on October 18, 2020 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - OCTOBER 18: Stephon Gilmore #24 of the New England Patriots warms up prior to the game against the Denver Broncos at Gillette Stadium on October 18, 2020 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /
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Stephon Gilmore
Stephon Gilmore. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports /

Stephon Gilmore was shockingly released by the Patriots and now these NFL teams would be great fits and landing spots that need him on the roster. 

In an absolute stunner, the New England Patriots released 2019 Defensive Player of the Year Stephon Gilmore. The cornerback was on the PUP list, meaning he won’t be eligible to return until after Week 6. However, he reportedly had hoped he could work out a new contract with the Patriots. That obviously didn’t turn out to be the case.

There are indications that Gilmore is looking for about $15 million per year on a new contract. However, for the remainder of the 2021 season, we could see an NFL team that doesn’t have that type of cap room get him on a cheaper deal before he looks for a lucrative contract in 2022 free agency.

So which NFL teams should be in the market for Stephon Gilmore? Well, the short answer is just about any team that needs help at cornerback. Specifically, though, these five NFL contenders would make a ton of sense as landing spots for the two-time All-Pro cornerback.

5. The ailing Kansas City Chiefs defense needs Stephon Gilmore

Everything you’d expect from the Kansas City Chiefs offense has been there this season. Patrick Mahomes is quietly playing the best season of his already storied career and everything is clicking when they have the ball in their possession. It’s been the other side of the ball that’s been a significant issue.

There are holes all over the Chiefs defense as they are just lacking talent. But it’s hard to look at this secondary and not think that’s a major issue. This team is starting Mike Hughes and Charvarius Ward at cornerback right now while L’Jarius Snead is still good but needs a more solid group around him to thrive.

While Stephon Gilmore at 31 years old may have lost a step, he would immediately be the best cornerback in Kansas City. If they can make the money work and sell the veteran on the potential to win a Super Bowl, the Chiefs would be quite sensible.

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