Gilmore: My future with the Patriots is 'out of my control'
Stephon Gilmore doesn't know what his future holds.
The 2019 Defensive Player of the Year is entering the final year of a five-year, $65-million contract with the New England Patriots. He's proved to be one of the league's most productive cornerbacks through four seasons with the Patriots, earning three Pro Bowl nods and a Super Bowl title.
But despite his accolades, Gilmore's $13-million average salary ties him with Adoree' Jackson of the New York Giants for 12th among NFL corners, according to Over The Cap. He's set to make roughly $7 million in 2021 after earning $14.2 million last season, according to Spotrac.
Gilmore, 30, is reportedly open to signing an extension with New England. But his team-friendly deal has prompted speculation about a move.
"It's out of my control," Gilmore said, according to Ben Volin of The Boston Globe. "I'm just happy to be a Patriot right now and see how it goes."
He added: "You've got to leave it in their hands. Of course, I know what type of player I am, what type of person I am. I let everything lay on its own."
Gilmore's 2020 campaign ended prematurely after he suffered a quadriceps injury in Week 15. He finished 2020 with 37 tackles, three passes defended, and one interception.
The Patriots, meanwhile, are looking to put last season behind them after missing the playoffs for the first time since 2008. Whether Gilmore is a part of New England's plans for redemption remains to be seen.