With just 10 days to go until the Patriots’ first scheduled training camp practice, cornerback Stephon Gilmore remains a presumptive holdout. The 2019 NFL Defensive Player of the Year is looking for either a salary bump or a contract extensions – the 30-year-old is set to make just over $7 million in 2021, which would make him the 26th highest-paid cornerback in football.
In his weekly MMQB column for SI, Albert Breer says he believes there is still work to be done between both sides to get Gilmore into camp. Recovery from the torn quad injury Gilmore suffered late last year may also end up being a speedbump.
“My belief is the Stephon Gilmore situation in New England remains very uncertain,” Breer explains. “Part of it’s that Gilmore isn’t yet completely out of the woods in coming back from the torn quad he suffered last year. But a bigger part is where he and the team are contractually, with Gilmore’s going into the final year of his deal.”
While that may not sound like the most encouraging update for Patriots fans, Breer does offer hope that the conversations could pick up momentum n the coming days. “My understanding is there’s been no recent progress toward either extending Gilmore, or giving him a raise for 2021, but that could change with people coming back off vacation in the coming days,” Breer writes. “Bottom line, the best thing for everyone is to address it soon. I think these two sides will.”
The Patriots’ report date for training camp is quickly approaching, with the first practice set for July 28. Once training camp begins, the Patriots can fine Gilmore up to $50,000 a day for any days that he misses.
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Alex Barth is a writer and digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Thoughts? Comments? Questions? Looking for a podcast guest? Let him know on Twitter @RealAlexBarth or via email at abarth@985TheSportsHub.com.
