Cornerback Stephon Gilmore has played his final NFL game.
The veteran announced his retirement on Thursday, closing the book after 13 years in the league with six different teams, spending the majority of his career with the Bills and Patriots.
Gilmore, 35, won a Super Bowl with the Patriots in 2019 when they defeated the Rams in Super Bowl LIII and was named NFL Defensive Player of the Year the following season when he had a career-best six interceptions and 20 passes defended.
Stephon Gilmore of the New England Patriots intercepts a pass against the Los Angeles Rams during Super Bowl LIII at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on February 3, 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia. Getty Images He was named to the Pro Bowl five times and was a two-time All-Pro during his career.
“As a young, scrappy kid from Rock Hill South Carolina with humble beginnings, the eldest of 6 – you gave me focus, opportunity, strength, and friends to last a lifetime,” Gilmore wrote in his retirement announcement on social media. “From my first game with Finley Road Falcons to two Super Bowls, multiple Pro Bowls, and a Defensive Player of the Year [award], you taught me the invaluable lesson of working hard and believing in myself.”
The Bills selected Gilmore with the 10th overall pick in 2012, and he spent the next five years in Western New York before signing with the Patriots during the offseason in 2017.
He also spent time with the Panthers, Colts, Cowboys and Vikings, which was his final stop in 2024.
In 180 games, Gilmore recorded 617 tackles, 32 interceptions, 149 pass breakups, eight forced fumbles and one sack.
Stephon Gilmore of the Minnesota Vikings looks on prior to a game between the Minnesota Vikings and Green Bay Packers at U.S. Bank Stadium on December 29, 2024 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Getty Images In his announcement, Gilmore thanked his wife, kids, parents and coaches.
“And to the fans,” he wrote, “thank you for your support. I have had an incredible 13 years in the League, and I cannot wait to see what this next chapter holds.”
