FOXBORO, Mass. — Stephon Gilmore kept the door open on a potential return to the New England Patriots but confirmed he hasn’t had any conversations with the organization during free agency.

“Never know, I know I’ll weigh any options,” Gilmore said on the red carpet before Tom Brady’s Patriots Hall of Fame induction at Gillette Stadium on Wednesday night. “It’s a place that I played great ball. So, letting it play out how it’s going to be.”

When asked if he’s had contact with the Patriots, Gilmore replied: “No, not really.”

The 33-year-old Gilmore played four seasons with the Patriots (2017 through 2020) before he was traded to the Carolina Panthers. The 2019 Defensive Player of the Year, a key contributor on New England’s Super Bowl LIII team, played for the Dallas Cowboys last season.

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He remains one of the top free agents available on the open market.

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“Just being patient right now,” Gilmore said. “I feel good. Year 13, it’s been a long time. So, just being patient and waiting on the right opportunity.”

Many have speculated whether Gilmore could be a good fit in New England entering the 2024 campaign. He proved his worth as a valuable second cornerback in Dallas last season, and with the Patriots’ cornerback group featuring a handful of young players — Christian Gonzalez, Marcus Jones, Alex Austin, etc. — it might not hurt to have another veteran voice alongside Jonathan Jones.

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Featured image via Vincent Carchietta/USA TODAY Sports Images