Gilmore did not play in the 2025 season, a factor likely tied to market considerations or aging.

Drafted 10th overall in 2012, Gilmore remains Hall of Fame-eligible in four years, as the conversation about his legacy continues.

His college career at South Carolina featured standout play, including recognition as SC Mr. Football before joining the Gamecocks.

The Raiders added Kirk Cousins to mentor Fernando Mendoza, signaling a strategic move in their quarterback room ahead of the 2026 draft; Mendoza is projected as the top pick and Cousins’ AFC debut marks a new chapter.

The NFL world bids farewell to Stephon Gilmore, a 13-year veteran who announced his retirement with an Instagram post featuring career highlights and a message that the game ends here, but the journey continues.

Gilmore’s most impactful stretch came with the New England Patriots, including a Super Bowl title and a 2019 Defensive Player of the Year honor, reinforcing his status as one of the era’s top cornerbacks.

A Rock Hill, South Carolina native and South Carolina alumnus, Gilmore was the No. 10 overall pick in 2012 and developed into a trusted defensive pillar across multiple franchises.

analysts from The Athletic have described him as an accountable and insightful player who some observers believe could be Hall of Fame material.

The report on his retirement was published April 2, 2026, by The State’s Lou Bezjak.

The piece references Ian Rapoport’s reporting and Klint Kubiak’s stance on not rushing a young quarterback, framing Mendoza’s Pro Day and the 2026 draft context.

Gilmore’s departure opens a cornerback depth question for the Chiefs, who have veterans and young players in the mix as they approach two first-round selections.