Defensive Player of the Year

Cornerback Stephon Gilmore, a Super Bowl champion and 2019 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, announced his retirement after 13 seasons in the league. The former Patriots standout, who last played for the Minnesota Vikings in 2024, shared a personal message on social media thanking his family, coaches and fans. Gilmore leaves behind a legacy of consistent excellence, including interceptions in every professional season.