Ronnie Perkins knows he might get ‘clowned’ for his Stephon Gilmore comment

2021 third-round draft pick Ronnie Perkins is either the latest Patriots Insider on the beat or thought that the rumors become reality in regards to New England cornerback Stephon Gilmore.

Either way, the newest Patriot knows he’s about to hear it for his comments on the Patriots’ All-Pro corner.

Asked about past Patriots players that he models his game after, the Oklahoma edge rusher went with Willie McGinest and Dont’a Hightower. Those are definitely some expected names given his position and their impact. But things took a turn — and in more ways than one — when it came to Gilmore’s inclusion on that list.

“I’d also say a D.B. who just left the Patriots — what’s his name? Gilmore, Stephon Gilmore,” Perkins said. “Just because Stephon Gilmore, he’s a silent assassin. I’d definitely say him because he’s a silent assassin, he lets his play do the talking.”

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  First of all, love that Gilmore's status as a silent assassin is known beyond the walls of Patriot Place. But secondly, wait, what?
  
  Sure, there's been talk of Gilmore leaving the Patriots. That talk was probably at its loudest during the 2020 season itself. And though a Gilmore trade was at one point considered a 'foregone conclusion' this offseason, the talk about Gilmore's New England future has since taken on a more positive tone, even with the obvious contract uncertainty. He's also, uh, still here.
  
  "Oh, I might get clowned for that one," Perkins said when informed that Gilmore is still a Patriot. "My bad."
  
  It was perhaps the only misstep of an opening availability with Perkins outright screaming future Patriot favorite.
  
  "I definitely know the Patriots fans will love me," Perkins said. "Just from watching the past Patriots defensive greats, I definitely know they will love me and the way I play. Just as a person, they’re getting a guy who loves to interact with the community, who loves to interact with the fans, so they’ll definitely see me around New England a lot.
  
  "I just can’t wait to go out there and get the whole thing, like man, I’m really a Patriot now. I just can’t wait."
  
  And just wait 'til he sees Gilmore still there as a Patriot.

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Ty Anderson is a writer and columnist for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Yell at him on Twitter: @_TyAnderson.