1. Stephon Gilmore, New England Patriots
There’s no debating who the best cornerback was in 2019 based on the incredible level that Stephon Gilmore performed at. Entrusted with the role Darrelle Revis carved out within the scheme, Gilmore is often responsible for more field against the best receiver for huge stretches of games. He responded with a career-high in interceptions and pass breakups.
Gilmore wasn’t always this playmaker until later in his Buffalo career. But often his big plays were matched by breakdowns and missed communications. It’s not coincidence those have been severely cut down as he plays with more consistent teammates and has a coach that stresses communication.
His physicality is top-notch but he’s careful to not overdo it anymore, and his mastery of that balance has been the key to his consistency. His playmaking has improved since he can trust his eyes and technique more, and he’s blossomed to a level that every corner in the league strives for.