Stephon Gilmore Rumors: Rams Have Been in Contact with Free-Agent CB

According to Jourdan Rodrigue of The Athletic, the Los Angeles Rams have been in contact with free-agent Cornerback Stephon Gilmore.

"The Rams have been in contact with Gilmore this offseason, a source said. If signed, Gilmore would occupy the outside cornerback role opposite Jalen Ramsey. If and when Ramsey moves into the 'Star' position, either Robert Rochell or David Long Jr. can play the other outside spot (I also expect the Rams to draft a cornerback)."

The five-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro has played 10 seasons in the National Football League. His best season was with the Pats in 2019: he had six picks and 20 passes defended, and was named the Associated Press Defensive Player of the Year.

Gilmore was traded by New England before the season began. He started the year on the physically unable to perform list after suffering a partially torn quad the year before, and played just eight games during an injury-shortened campaign.

Gilmore played less than half the season, but still found himself in the Pro Bowl. He had 16 tackles and a pair of picks.

Gilmore is the 16th-best free agent and the second-best corner in the class, according to Pro Football Focus.

"Gilmore made the Patriots' defense tick from 2017 to 2019 as he played lockdown man coverage better than any corner in the league. He's at his best playing press man where he can cover the league's best receivers, but he comes back down to Earth when asked to play more zone concepts."

The Rams already looked primed for a repeat run with many of their players from last year's team returning. Ramsey and Gilmore could easily form the top defensive duo in the league, as Donald wrecks havoc up front.

Gilmore is one of the best free agents.