As a perennial Pro Bowler and former Defensive Player of the Year, Minnesota Vikings cornerback Stephon Gilmore has been around the block when it comes to defending prolific quarterbacks. His 32 career interceptions should speak for themselves.
But before Sunday, Gilmore couldn’t say he had ever picked off four-time MVP Aaron Rodgers. It was an elusive niche accomplishment for a defensive back who has faced off against some of the greatest quarterbacks to play the game while humbling them accordingly.
When Rodgers and the New York Jets offense struggled against Brian Flores’ complex Vikings defense in London, the veteran Gilmore finally intercepted Rodgers after all these years to seal Minnesota’s win:
STEPHON GILMORE SEALS THE WIN WITH A PICK.#NYJvsMIN pic.twitter.com/3Li9D2uZw1
— NFL (@NFL) October 6, 2024
On Monday morning, Gilmore made light of his new achievement.
As someone who had already once picked off Tom Brady and Peyton Manning, he could now add Rodgers to his exclusive trophy case:
Ok this a list I’ve picked off Brady Peyton and now Rodgers.
— The Gilly Lock (@BumpNrunGilm0re) October 7, 2024
Imagine being able to say you picked a pass off three quarterbacks with a combined 12 MVPs, seven Super Bowl MVPs, and 10 Super Bowl wins.
Now that’s what we call a flex, Stephon Gilmore. He should bask in it.