Patriots’ Stephon Gilmore’s injury vs Dolphins looked really bad
The last thing the Patriots need is a serious injury to Stephon Gilmore.
The New England Patriots couldn’t have gotten luckier throughout most of the first half against the Miami Dolphins, but it all ran out with just over two minutes remaining in the second quarter.
Reigning Defensive Play of the Year Stephon Gilmore went down with a troubling-looking injury when in coverage on the outside. He went down to the ground in a world of pain before being surrounded by teammates and taken to the medical tent.
Shortly after, he was taken to the locker room and was seen holding onto two staffers, unable to put weight on his knee, though we’re not entirely sure which one it is.
Here's the Stephon Gilmore injury. #Patriots pic.twitter.com/Kvf5MuUEr0
— Mike Giardi (@MikeGiardi) December 20, 2020
Ouch.
Then we got an update from the Patriots, who announced Gilmore was doubtful to return.
Patriots injury update: Stephon Gilmore (knee), doubtful to return.
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) December 20, 2020
The only shred of good news is that the Dolphins are down pretty much all of their offensive playmakers today, so Gilmore’s absence may not be overly detrimental. However, the bigger concern is his long-term health. He’s in the final year of his contract with the Patriots and any structural damage to his knee would be horrific for both parties.
New England would lose out on the final year of Gilmore’s deal and the All-Pro cornerback would miss out on a big payday after a contract year in 2021, which would likely be the last of his career. Another issue? This would kill his trade value if there’s any drama in the offseason about an extension.
As of now, the Patriots lead 6-0 and the defense continues to get after Tua Tagovailoa, as many predicted. But now the rookie may have an opening on the outside if Brian Flores can exploit the Patriots’ defense with Gilmore out for the rest of the game.
Stay tuned for some (hopefully) positive updates on his status.
