Decorated cornerback Stephon Gilmore has announced his retirement from the NFL at the age of 35.
Gilmore played for the Buffalo Bills, New England Patriots, Carolina Panthers, Indianapolis Colts, Dallas Cowboys and – most recently – the Minnesota Vikings.
Back in February 2019, he helped the Patriots win Super Bowl LIII and on Thursday, Gilmore announced he was hanging up his cleats.
‘I have had an incredible 13 years in the league,’ he said in a statement, ‘and I cannot wait to see what this next chapter holds.’
Gilmore wrote: ‘To my first love, Football… 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.
‘To my wife and kids, thank you for making it possible for me to chase my dreams. To my parents, thank you for raising me to be the man I am today.
‘To my coaches, thank you for pouring into me. And to the fans – thank you for your support. I have had an incredible 13 years in the league, and I cannot wait to see what this next chapter holds.’
MORE TO FOLLOW
