Stephon Gilmore leaves game against Dolphins with non-contact injury

This could be the end of Stephon Gilmore’s tenure in New England. 

The New England Patriots could be starting fresh in 2021. Any veteran talent that could be a cap hit likely will be cut and those who aren’t viewed as members of the long-term plan could be traded.

Stephon Gilmore might fall into both categories despite being a year removed from winning the NFL’s Defensive Player of the Year. If Sunday’s injury is as bad as it looks, this could be the final time fans see him wear Patriots colors in his career.

During the second quarter, Gilmore would be in man coverage against Miami Dolphins wide receiver Mack Hollins. Trying to turn back in, the veteran cornerback would immediately fall to the ground and reach for his knee.

The Patriots staff members would help him back into the locker room for further evaluation. His return is doubtful, indicating this could be serious.

Are the Patriots set to move on from Gilmore?

Gilmore was a hot name on the market at the NFL trade deadline. Barring an offer well over his asking price, New England likely would have parted ways with him during their up and down 2020 season.

Bill Belichick has made it clear in the past that despite talented, he understands when players likely are set to regress. An injury such as this will be one to monitor in the offseason and if severe, the team could be willing to cut ties with Gilmore and trust JC Jackson as the new CB1.

The NFL is a tough business. Gilmore’s injury might have decided his fate in Foxborough for 2021.