Stephon Gilmore announces NFL retirement after decorated 13-year career
Former New England Patriots cornerback Stephon Gilmore has announced his retirement from the NFL at the age of 35 after a decorated 13-year career.
The 2019 Defensive Player of the Year confirmed his decision to step away from the sport via a Thursday statement on social media.
“I have had an incredible 13 years in the League, and I cannot wait to see what this next chapter holds,” wrote Gilmore in a post to Instagram.
The South Carolina collegiate product departs having firmly established himself as one of the elite defensive backs of his generation.
Reaching the pinnacle in Foxborough
Selected in the first round of the 2012 draft by the Buffalo Bills, the athletic defender spent five productive seasons in upstate New York.
However, he truly secured his lasting legacy after making a high-profile move to the division-rival Patriots ahead of the 2017 campaign.
During a dominant four-season spell with the franchise, the shutdown corner earned first-team All-Pro honours in consecutive years.
He was heavily instrumental in securing a Super Bowl championship for the team following the 2018 regular season.
The veteran defensive star recorded two crucial interceptions and five passes defended throughout that memorable three-game postseason run.
A journeyman finish to an outstanding tenure
Following his eventual departure from New England, the five-time Pro Bowler embarked on several short-term stints across the league.
He featured for the Carolina Panthers, Indianapolis Colts, and Dallas Cowboys before a final campaign with the Minnesota Vikings.
The acclaimed defensive back leaves the gridiron having amassed 32 career interceptions across 180 professional appearances.
Furthermore, he compiled 149 passes defended and 617 total tackles while building a reputation as a nightmare matchup for premier wide receivers.
