The New England Patriots don't have a lot to worry about given the fact that they are the reigning Super Bowl champions. However, Bill Belichick and his staff do have some things to sort through before the 2017 season begins, headlined by a number of free agent decisions on the defensive side of the ball.
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One of those decisions revolves around free agent cornerback Logan Ryan and, on Thursday, word broke that Ryan's theoretical replacement is already headed to New England in the form of former Buffalo Bills cornerback Stephon Gilmore.
Bills free agent CB Stephon Gilmore expects to sign with New England barring any final snags, per sources.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 9, 2017
It is important to note that Gilmore's signing does not automatically disqualify New England from re-upping Ryan in the secondary but the reported price tag is pretty steep.
The expected price tag for free agent CB Stephon Gilmore for the #Patriots is slated to eclipse $14M per year, I’m told. Hefty but worth it
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 9, 2017
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Gilmore was the No. 10 overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft and, during his career in Buffalo, he is largely lived up to that pedigree. In fact, the talented defensive back was selected to the Pro Bowl last season (right on cue as he entered free agency) and this could be an upgrade for the Patriots in going from Ryan to Gilmore.
The Patriots still have another choice to make with regard to lead cornerback (and restricted free agent) Malcolm Butler but the presence of Gilmore would make things much easier for New England moving forward if this deal comes to fruition.
