Stephon Gilmore made his Panthers debut on Sunday against the Falcons, so he should feel pretty comfortable for next week's game against the Patriots.
A game he seems to be looking forward to.
Following Sunday's Panthers win over the Falcons, Gilmore was asked by reporters if the game against New England next week will give him any extra motivation?
"A lot extra," Gilmore responded.
The 2019 NFL Defensive Player of the Year was traded to the Panthers a few weeks ago. Gilmore started the year on PUP following quad surgery at the end of last year, but the biggest thing was his contract.
Gilmore was only making $7 million after having money moved from his salary this year to his contract last season. The cornerback wanted to be paid more and the Patriots reportedly were not willing to give him a raise. It is worth noting Gilmore is playing for the Panthers on his old contact -- he did not get a new deal.
Gilmore's comment indicates there was some animosity with how things ended in New England.
The cornerback had an interception in his Panthers debut.