Getty Stephon Gilmore talks football
The New England Patriots Stephon Gilmore is the reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year, so he’s obviously gifted physically. However, his football IQ is likely what sets him apart.
Recently, the star CB sat down with the NFL Network’s Brian Baldinger to break down coverage concepts, his mindset during, before, and after great plays, and some mistakes he’s made on the field.
It’s a fascinating 14-minute ride that left me even more impressed with Gilmore than I was before I watched it. If you love hearing high-level players talk football, you’ll love this video. You may have to watch it on YouTube.
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The Blend of Elite Athleticism and Genius-Level Football IQ
What happens when an elite-level athlete is also blessed with a keen understanding of the sport they play, and their responsibilities in that sport? Gilmore is a perfect example.
As you listen to him break down certain things in the video, it all makes perfect sense, but it’s easy to forget you need insane speed, strength and reflexes to execute what he sees on the field and on film.
Stephon Gilmore Stats
That understanding is what has led Gilmore to the DPOTY, a league-leading six interceptions in 2019, a total of 24 across his career. In addition to winning a Super Bowl with the Patriots in 2019, Gilmore has reached the big game twice in his career, while also being named to three Pro Bowl teams and two All-Pro squads.
He’s still just 29 years old.
Stephon Gilmore Compared to Deion Sanders
During another NFL Network special, Hall-of-Fame quarterback Kurt Warner sung Gilmore’s praises and even compared the Patriots star to all-time-great cornerback Deion Sanders.
Warner said this of Gilmore:
“Maybe not the top-end athleticism that Deion had,” Warner said referring to Gilmore. “Maybe not the speed that Deion had. But the same kind of craft he plays with, so he would probably be the guy. Deion was a guy who would get up in your face a lot.”
Any comparison to Sanders is the utmost compliment a player can receive.
Why Stephon Gilmore is Perfect for Jordan Brand
Gilmore is an intense competitor, but one who has a mild demeanor, and who has been free of off-the-field drama. His on-field excellence mixed with his qualities as a role model have made him the perfect representative for Jordan Brand.
That’s an endorsement deal he signed this offseason and he should be wearing the apparel on the field once the 2020 season begins. Gilmore continued to shine as a role model when he took place in the Black Lives Matter movement video featuring the Kansas City Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes, Dallas Cowboys’ Ezekiel Elliott, New Orleans Saints’ Michael Thomas, and others.
NFL stars came together to release this video, which asks the league to:
◼️ condemn racism and systematic oppression
◼️ admit fault in silencing players from peacefully protesting
◼️ state its belief that Black lives matter
(via @saquon)
Gilmore continues to shine and the Patriots are lucky to have him on the field and in the locker room.
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