Indianapolis Colts cornerback Stephon Gilmore made good on an opportunity to set the record straight on his feelings towards his former team, the New England Patriots.
When speaking with Tyler Dunne for GoLongTD.com, the two-time First-Team All-Pro defensive back explained that there are no hard feelings with the Patriots.
Granted, there was some miscommunication regarding the handling of his quad injury in 2021, before he was shipped off to the Carolina Panthers for a sixth-round draft pick.
But there’s also the business side of things as well. Gilmore knew he was getting older and coming off an injury in a revolving door league with players coming and going.
He has his own opinions on how things should have gone down, but they don’t trump the gratitude he feels from playing under owner Robert Kraft and coach Bill Belichick.
“It’s kind of a respect thing,” said Gilmore. “It’s a business at the end of the day but I think you should respect someone who put the work in. You shouldn’t disrespect someone who’s been there for your organization. But as far as Bill, I love Bill. I love Robert Kraft. If it wasn’t for them, I wouldn’t be the player I am now.
“So, I’m very appreciative. If it wasn’t for those guys, I wouldn’t be the knowledgeable corner I am now. I wouldn’t be a Super Bowl winner. I wouldn’t be the defensive player of the year. So, it was a blessing to go to that organization.”
It was a blessing for the Patriots to have Gilmore as well.
He made key plays that helped spring the team in back-to-back Super Bowl appearances, including snagging a game-winning interception from then-Los Angeles Rams quarterback Jared Goff to win Super Bowl LIII.
Flashback to Super Bowl LIII: Stephon Gilmore makes the game sealing interception and the Patriots capture their SIXTH Super Bowl Ring 🏆🔥 pic.twitter.com/f2J5XLFp5o
— Pats Buzz (@PatsBuzz) December 8, 2020
Gilmore is better for having been in New England, and the Patriots are better for having had him.
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