Stephon Gilmore

BIOGRAPHY

Stephon Stiles Gilmore, born on September 19, 1990, is a well-respected figure in American professional football. Currently, he serves as a cornerback for the Minnesota Vikings, one of the leading franchises in the National Football League (NFL).

Gilmore was born and raised in Rock Hill, South Carolina, where he discovered his passion for sports. He attended South Pointe High School, excelling as a multi-sport athlete in football, basketball, and track & field. He cemented his role as a promising football player at quarterback and defensive back positions. He led his high school team to a flawless 15-0 record and the SCHSL AAAA Division II title during his senior year. As a testament to his robust performances, he secured first-team all-state honors by The State and was acclaimed an All-American by publications like Parade and EA Sports. He was also awarded as Mr. Football for the state of South Carolina, significantly contributing to his reputation as a top-tier player.

Following his astounding high school sporting career, Gilmore attended the University of South Carolina. He was a pivotal player for the South Carolina Gamecocks. After his selection as the tenth overall player by the Buffalo Bills in the 2012 NFL draft, Gilmore spent five remarkable seasons with the team, earning Pro Bowl honors in 2016.

Soon after, he joined the New England Patriots, which marked a significant turn in his career. His exceptional performances helped him secure the 2019 Defensive Player of the Year title with the Patriots. He co-led the league in interceptions in the same year, extending his Pro Bowl selections to four. Furthermore, he received two first-team All-Pro selections and was instrumental in the team’s victory in Super Bowl LIII.

His journey with the Patriots led him to the Carolina Panthers, where he achieved his fifth Pro Bowl selection. Subsequently, he played single seasons with both the Indianapolis Colts and the Dallas Cowboys, demonstrating his versatility and adaptability to different teams and strategies.

Off the football field, Gilmore also pursued track & field, specializing as a sprinter during his junior year in 2008. He exhibited impressive performances in various events including the 100-meters, 200-meters, and 400-meters and was a crucial part of the 4 × 100 m relay team. His commendable achievements as a football player and sprinter earned him a four-star recruit tag by Rivals.com, listing him as the No. 2 overall prospect from South Carolina in the class of 2009.

In his freshman year at the University of South Carolina, Gilmore’s decision to participate in spring practice proved beneficial as he emerged as a starting cornerback post-spring. He appeared in all 12 games and racked up noteworthy stats, earning him Freshman All-American honors by College Football News and Phil Steele.

He also attended the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, Indiana, finishing among the top 10 in various drills. Gilmore’s pro day at South Carolina saw attendance from team representatives of all 32 NFL teams, further enhancing his reputation as a promising prospect for the NFL draft.

Gilmore was drafted by the reliable Buffalo Bills in the first round (10th overall) of the 2012 NFL draft. His selection was the highest for a Gamecocks’ cornerback since Dunta Robinson in 2004. His debut season at the NFL was marked by 61 combined tackles and his first interception. He wore jersey number 24 after previously being assigned number 27 as a mark of respect for departed teammate Terrence McGee.

Throughout his subsequent seasons with the Bills, Gilmore emerged as a dependable player, displaying consistent performance despite injuries. Post-Rex Ryan’s dismissal as head coach, Gilmore was picked for the 2017 Pro Bowl and received the Ed Block Courage Award. However, the new head coach, Sean McDermott, declined to franchise tag him, leading to Gilmore signing a lucrative contract with the New England Patriots.

Gilmore’s stint with the Patriots was marked by victories and strong individual performance. His competitive spirit earned him prestigious accolades during the 2018 season, including the Defensive Player of the Year award. He has since continued to soar high as a cornerback and remains an influential figure in American football.