The Patriots secondary is among the best in the NFL. A big reason why is having Stephon Gilmore and JC Jackson as their two starting corners.
ESPN is putting out its top 10 players at each position from the results of a poll taken by over 50 NFL executives, scouts, coaches and players.
Gilmore (No. 4) and Jackson (No. 10) both made the cut.
"[Gilmore] didn't have a great year, but I don't think he's down and out," an NFL official said "Still very talented. Long, great ball skills. You forget how fast he is until you see him in person. When he gets on your guys, he can frustrate the hell out of you. Very sneaky player in man and also get his eyes on the quarterback. He sees the quarterback and pivots eyes in and out. I don't think he's improving but he's not falling off, either."
Gilmore, of course, is signed for one more season but is upset with his contract and even did not attend mandatory minicamp. It remains to be seen how things will play out with him ahead of training camp later in the month.
Jackson, who is 25 years old, is also entering the final year of his contract with the team.
"Baller," an NFC executive said. "Premier athlete, takes chances, productive on the ball, confident, very willing tackler."
The New England defense is expected to make a big jump for its performance a year ago.
