Stephon Gilmore on contract situation with Patriots: ‘I just want what I’m worth’

Training camp nears for the New England Patriots without the certainty of Stephon Gilmore’s presence.

But the former NFL Defensive Player of the Year, who did not attend June’s three-day mandatory minicamp, discussed his contract situation in a phone interview with “Undefined” host Josina Anderson on Friday.

“I just want what I’m worth, however that plays out,” Gilmore told Anderson. “Every player should be paid what they’re worth. That’s just how it is.”

Gilmore received a $4.5 million advance from the Patriots prior to last season. In turn, his base salary entering the final year of the five-year, $65 million pact from 2017 currently stands at $7 million.

“Hopefully we can find some common ground and get it situated,” added Gilmore. “I just know what I bring to the table and my style of play. Right now I’m just trying to focus on myself and make sure I’m good mentally and physically.”

Gilmore’s 2020 campaign ended midway through December after the cornerback underwent surgery to repair a partially torn quad. He started each of his 11 appearances before going on injured reserve, playing 632 defensive snaps and intercepting the 13th pass of his Patriots career, including postseason.

Asked about his rehab with the first practice of training camp set for July 28, Gilmore noted he didn’t want to push the injury, but said, “I feel stronger than I’ve ever felt since the surgery. I’ve been running a lot, building full speed.”

A four-time Pro Bowler and two-time first-team All-Pro, Gilmore turns 31 in September.