Stephon Gilmore trade rumors: As per reports, Gilmore will not be attending the Patriots mandatory minicamp. He is demanding a new contract which should make him one of the highest-paid cornerbacks in the league.
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While the Stephon Gilmore trade rumors will continue, these are the top teams who may potentially trade for him:
1. Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals lost cornerback Patrick Peterson this offseason as he signed with the Minnesota Vikings. They did sign Malcolm Butler as a replacement but it might not be enough.
While Byron Murphey improved dramatically last year and can play both nickel or move to the outside, Butler isn’t a guaranteed starting-caliber player.
Butler allowed a staggering 873 receiving yards last season. Having to go up against other star receivers such as D.K Metcalf, Cooper Kupp, Tyler Lockett and more, he may not be the best option.
Gilmore would provide instant security at the cornerback position and may also push the Cardinals to a top 6 type defense especially with the new additions Zaven Collins and J.J Watt.
2. Atlanta Falcons
There were rumors about a possible exchange between Julio Jones and Stephon Gilmore before. Gilmore would be exactly what the Falcons need on defense.
A.J Terrell did not live up to the hype of being drafted at the 16th overall pick in the 2020 NFL draft. He surrendered nearly 1000 receiving yards last season and 6 touchdowns as well.
Trading for the 30-year-old cornerback would immediately upgrade the defense. The Falcons now have more than $16 million in cap space and could potentially afford Gilmore.
3. Dallas Cowboys
It’s no secret the Cowboys defense was one of the worst in the league last season. Ranking 28th in overall defense last season, acquiring Stephon Gilmore would create an ideal situation for the Cowboys.
Firstly, younger players such as Trevon Diggs and Kelvin Joseph would definitely learn from Gilmore. Not only would he act as an immediate starter, but his leadership and experience would take the Cowboys defense to the next level, especially with newly drafted explosive linebacker Micah Parsons.
4. Seattle Seahawks
The Seahawks are an intriguing option. They do have loads of competition at training camp, with more than 6 players battling for the starting position.
However, multiple Seahawk reporters suggest that the team should explore a potential trade for the star cornerback.
Moreover, what seems to be the issue is the cap space. The Seahawks have just under $5 million in cap space as per Spotrac.
Head Coach Pete Carroll mentioned that they don’t want to restructure Russell Wilson or Bobby Wagner’s contracts. This might have to change as trading for Gilmore would require a couple of financial moves to be made.
Also read: NFL power rankings 2021 – Top 5 teams who pose as true contenders
