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.
Stephon Gilmore made his retirement official with a social media post, reflecting on his path from a young kid in Rock Hill, South Carolina, to NFL stardom. In the message, he wrote: “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. 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.” He also thanked his wife, kids, parents and coaches for their support throughout his career, adding that he looks forward to the next chapter after an incredible 13 years in the league and cannot wait to see what it holds, while expressing gratitude to the fans for their support. Gilmore, the 2012 first-round draft pick out of South Carolina, spent his longest tenure with the Buffalo Bills over five years but became most associated with the New England Patriots during a four-year stint starting in 2017. There, he earned three Pro Bowl selections, two first-team All-Pro honors and led the NFL in 2019 with six interceptions and 20 passes defended, securing the Associated Press Defensive Player of the Year award. He played a key role in the Patriots' Super Bowl victory over the Los Angeles Rams that year, recording two interceptions and forcing a fumble, including a fourth-quarter pick that helped seal a two-score lead. A season-ending quad injury in 2020 led to his departure from New England via trade to the Carolina Panthers, after which he suited up for four teams in four years, concluding with 15 starts for the Vikings in 2024 on a one-year deal. A five-time Pro Bowler and the only championship of his career came with the Patriots.
