When the Patriots open training camp Wednesday morning, it does not look like Stephon Gilmore will be on the field with the rest of his teammates.
The veteran cornerback is on PUP after suffering a quad injury at the end of last season and he's not happy with his current contract that has him making $7.5 million in the final year of his deal.
Gilmore did not attend any of the offseason program.
"I just want what I’m worth, however that plays out," he said to veteran NFL reporter Josina Anderson. "Every player should be paid what they’re worth. That’s just how it is."
Speaking to reporters Tuesday ahead of training camp Wednesday, Devin McCourty was asked about Gilmore and he didn't seem too concerned while noting how important he is to the defense.
“All that stuff usually gets resolved,” he said. “And whenever a player’s contract comes up it’s between kind of between the player and the team, so that all will be figured out. It was good seeing my guy again.
“And like I’ve always said, he’s one of the best corners in this league. He’s been the best guy for the last couple of years, obviously defensive MVP, and he’s really made this defense operate at a different level when he’s out there. So anytime I get an opportunity to be out there on the field with him, gives us a better chance to win, makes us a better defense. So it is great having you here in the locker room and on this team.”
Gilmore is one of the better players on the Patriots defense, which has the potential to be in the top five in 2021.
