40 Facts About Stephon Gilmore

Early Life and Background

Stephon Gilmore's journey to NFL stardom began long before he donned a professional jersey. Here are some intriguing facts about his early years.

1. Born on September 19, 1990, in Rock Hill, South Carolina, Gilmore grew up in a sports-loving family.
2. He attended South Pointe High School, where he excelled in both football and basketball.
3. In high school, he played quarterback and defensive back, showcasing his versatility on the field.
4. Gilmore led his high school team to a state championship in 2008, earning MVP honors for his performance.
5. He was a four-star recruit and ranked as one of the top cornerbacks in the nation by Rivals.com.

College Career

Gilmore's talent shone brightly during his college years at the University of South Carolina. Let's delve into some key moments from his time as a Gamecock.

6. He started all 13 games as a true freshman in 2009, a rare feat for a college player.
7. Gilmore earned Freshman All-American honors for his outstanding performance in his debut season.
8. During his sophomore year, he recorded 79 tackles, three sacks, and three interceptions.
9. He was named to the All-SEC first team in 2010, solidifying his reputation as a top cornerback.
10. Gilmore declared for the NFL Draft after his junior year, forgoing his senior season.

NFL Draft and Early Professional Career

Entering the NFL was a significant milestone for Gilmore. His early professional years set the stage for his future success.

11. The Buffalo Bills selected Gilmore with the 10th overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft.
12. He signed a four-year, $12.1 million contract with the Bills, including a $7.2 million signing bonus.
13. Gilmore started 16 games in his rookie season, recording 61 tackles and one interception.
14. He earned a reputation for his physical style of play and ability to shut down top receivers.
15. In 2014, he was named the Bills' Defensive MVP by his teammates.

Rise to Stardom with the New England Patriots

Gilmore's career reached new heights after joining the New England Patriots. His time with the team was marked by numerous accolades and memorable moments.

16. He signed a five-year, $65 million contract with the Patriots in 2017, making him one of the highest-paid cornerbacks in the league.
17. Gilmore played a crucial role in the Patriots' Super Bowl LIII victory, recording five tackles and three pass deflections.
18. He was named to the Pro Bowl in 2018, 2019, and 2020, showcasing his consistent excellence.
19. In 2019, he was awarded the NFL Defensive Player of the Year, becoming the first cornerback to win the award since 2009.
20. Gilmore led the league in interceptions (6) and pass deflections (20) during the 2019 season.

Personal Life and Off the Field

Beyond the gridiron, Gilmore has a rich personal life and engages in various off-field activities. Here are some lesser-known facts about his life outside football.

21. He married his high school sweetheart, Gabrielle Glenn, in 2014.
22. The couple has three children together, two sons and a daughter.
23. Gilmore is known for his philanthropic efforts, including hosting youth football camps in his hometown.
24. He has a passion for fashion and often shares his stylish outfits on social media.
25. Gilmore enjoys playing video games, particularly Madden NFL, where he often plays as himself.

Recent Career Moves and Current Status

Gilmore's career continues to evolve as he remains a key player in the NFL. Let's look at some recent developments and his current status.

26. In 2021, he was traded to the Carolina Panthers, returning to his home state of South Carolina.
27. He made an immediate impact with the Panthers, recording an interception in his debut game.
28. Gilmore was named to the Pro Bowl for the fifth time in his career in 2021.
29. He continues to be regarded as one of the top cornerbacks in the league, known for his lockdown coverage.
30. Gilmore's leadership and experience have made him a valuable mentor to younger players on the Panthers' roster.

Awards and Achievements

Throughout his career, Gilmore has amassed numerous awards and achievements. Here are some highlights of his illustrious career.

31. He has been named to the NFL All-Pro team three times (2018, 2019, 2020).
32. Gilmore was ranked in the NFL Top 100 Players list multiple times, peaking at #9 in 2020.
33. He received the AFC Defensive Player of the Month award in October 2019.
34. Gilmore was named the Patriots' team captain in 2019 and 2020.
35. He has recorded over 400 tackles, 27 interceptions, and 100 pass deflections in his NFL career.

Fun Facts and Trivia

To wrap up, here are some fun and lesser-known facts about Stephon Gilmore that might surprise you.

36. He is a big fan of the NBA and often attends games during the NFL offseason.
37. Gilmore has a pet dog named Ace, who often appears in his social media posts.
38. He enjoys cooking and often shares his culinary creations with his followers.
39. Gilmore has a tattoo of a lion on his arm, symbolizing strength and courage.
40. He once appeared in a commercial for a local car dealership in Buffalo during his time with the Bills.

Final Look at Stephon Gilmore

Stephon Gilmore's journey in the NFL is nothing short of impressive. From his early days with the Buffalo Bills to becoming a key player for the New England Patriots, his career is marked by determination and skill. Winning the NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 2019 and earning multiple Pro Bowl selections, Gilmore has proven his worth on the field. His ability to shut down top receivers and make game-changing plays sets him apart. Off the field, he's known for his community involvement and dedication to giving back. Whether you're a football fan or just love a good success story, Gilmore's career offers plenty to admire. Keep an eye on him as he continues to make his mark in the NFL.