Stephon Gilmore among absences at Patriots mandatory minicamp
Cornerback Stephon Gilmore is expected to be among what could be multiple absences at Patriots mandatory minicamp on Monday in Foxborough.
FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS – JANUARY 04: Stephon Gilmore #24 of the New England Patriots lines up during the AFC Wild Card Playoff game against the Tennessee Titans at Gillette Stadium on January 04, 2020 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
Maddie Meyer/Getty ImagesCornerback Stephon Gilmore is expected to be among what could be multiple absences at Patriots mandatory minicamp on Monday in Foxborough. Jim McBride of the Boston Globe was first to report the news.
Gilmore, 30, has not attended any voluntary offseason workouts for the Patriots. He underwent surgery to repair a partially torn quad before the end of the 2020 season. Entering the final year of his contract due for a $7 million salary, Gilmore has also been subject to trade rumors and debates, although he told the Globe's Ben Volin in April that he's "happy to be a Patriot right now."
Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network reiterated Monday on Twitter that Gilmore "wants a new contract" as he's set to miss the first day of minicamp.
Patriots head coach Bill Belichick alluded to travel problems and inclement weather as possible reasons for spotty attendance at mandatory minicamp on Monday.
"We had a little weather here, we're working through some travel arrangements, so we'll see what the full level of participation is here [Monday] and for this week," Belichick said. "I'm sure we'll have a pretty full roster."
When asked if Gilmore would be in attendance, Belichick responded: "Like I said, we're kind of scrambling to get things going this morning. ... Not sure how all of it worked out. We were close with a couple guys this morning."
According to Jeff Howe of The Athletic, Gilmore's absence is not weather-related. The Patriots could fine Gilmore up to $93,085 if he missed all three days of mandatory minicamp.
According to McBride, quarterback Cam Newton will be in attendance Monday and throughout minicamp, and should get his regular reps.
MORE: Socci's Notebook: Patriots kicker Quinn Nordin is more than just a specialist
Matt Dolloff is a writer and podcaster for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Have a news tip, question, or comment for Matt? Yell at him on Twitter @mattdolloff and follow him on Instagram @mattydsays. You can also email him at mdolloff@985thesportshub.com.
