Patriots players, like the fans, were stunned Wednesday morning upon learning about the release of Stephon Gilmore.
New England reportedly let the star cornerback go after failing to reach a contract restructure. Gilmore confirmed the news in a social media post, thanking the Patriots organization and fanbase.
NFL Media's Mike Giardi offered some additional context, including initial reactions from Gilmore's now-former teammates.
"Gilmore was open to taking a sweetened one-year deal, per source, much like he did a season ago," Giardi tweeted. "I've reached out to several of his teammates already this morning and none were aware. One responded, 'damn, that's crazy.' "
Gilmore signed with New England before the 2017 season and enjoyed a successful four-year run, reaching two Super Bowls (winning one) and earning the 2019 Defensive Player of the Year Award.
Barring a major addition, the Patriots will proceed with J.C. Jackson as their No. 1 cornerback for the foreseeable future.
