The New England Patriots’ decision to trade star corner Stephon Gilmore to the Carolina Panthers back in early October surprised most of the league but not the player himself. Speaking with reporters earlier this week, Gilmore revealed that his relationship with the Pats deteriorated recently and that the two sides mutually agreed to part ways even before he was dealt.
According to Gilmore, the major reason behind his departure from New England was how the franchise handled his torn quad injury. The 31-year-old got hurt in Week 15 of the 2020 NFL season and had to undergo surgery to repair the damage.
“I just didn’t like how they handled my situation, my injury. A lot went on with that I didn’t agree with,” Gilmore said. “I learned a lot there. I have a lot of friends there. A lot of great coaches. I just didn’t like how they handled my situation with my injury.”
Gilmore added that the Pats’ hesitance to give him an improved deal also played a part in his exit.
“At the end of the day, it’s a business. They treat it like a business, and we made the best decision for each other,” he added.
Gilmore spent three and a half years in New England and has established himself as one of the best corners in the game during that time. He won NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 2019 while also helping the Pats win Super Bowl LIII.
Gilmore already made his debut with the Panthers, playing 17 defensive snaps in a 19-13 win over the Atlanta Falcons. Despite limited time on the field, he managed to get a tackle, an interception, and one pass defended.
