Steelers: 3 free agents Brian Flores can help poach for Pittsburgh

Now that Stephon Gilmore is out of New England, go get your next cornerback

Among the many former Patriots and Dolphins who could reunite with Flores in Pittsburgh, Carolina Panthers cornerback Stephon Gilmore has to be atop the list. Gilmore split last season between New England and his hometown team in Charlotte. Though the Rock Hill, South Carolina native did not see the team success he was hoping for, there is a chance he could return in 2022.

Of course, the Panthers have not been anything close to good during either of Matt Rhule’s years as head coach. This is a critical offseason for not only him, but new general manager Scott Fitterer to right the ship in the Queen City. Meanwhile, the Steelers have a strong identity on defense, but they are in need of help in the back-end. Gilmore might be exactly what the team is looking for.

Look for Gilmore to flourish playing alongside Minkah Fitzpatrick in the Steelers defensive backfield. With Watt at the peak of his powers in the pass rush, it will only help Gilmore haul in a few more interceptions at this point of his career. He may not get six like he did in his AP Defensive Player of the Year campaign in 2019, but going to the Steelers could make him a lock for Canton.

Gilmore may be on the wrong side of 30, but he still has a few high-quality years left in the tank.