Eagles Urged to Sign $116 Million Shutdown Legend for Super Bowl Run

Philadelphia, PA – July 5, 2025

The city might be buzzing about the future — but some voices in the building are starting to whisper about the past. And about one name that could quietly bring it all back.

The Eagles' cornerback room is young, fast, and full of promise. Quinyon Mitchell, the All-Pro-in-waiting. Cooper DeJean, the Super Bowl hero with that 38-yard pick-six against Mahomes. Kelee Ringo’s fire, Andrew Mukuba’s upside, and Reed Blankenship’s grit. But ask any coach off the record — what they really miss is depth. Veteran presence. Cold-blooded experience when the lights get hot.

And that’s where the whispers turn into a name.
Stephon Gilmore.

The former NFL Defensive Player of the Year, a five-time team journeyman in five seasons, is still unsigned. But he’s not done. Not yet.
“I want to play this year. I still love the game. I just need the right situation,” Gilmore said on The Money Down Podcast. “I’m not gonna sign just anywhere. I still believe I can contribute.”

He’s made over $116 million in career earnings. The Eagles don’t need to outbid anyone — they just need to offer the right chance. The right story. A championship window. A defense led by youth, but steadied by a champion who’s been to the mountaintop.

Gilmore, now 33, once anchored a Patriots defense that won it all. He locked down receivers, won NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 2019, and returned two interceptions for touchdowns. Last year, in Minnesota, he quietly started 15 games with 59 tackles and 9 pass breakups. Not a decline — just a professional doing his job.

He’s not looking for a long-term home anymore. He’s looking for one last dance. One last firework in February.

And if he’s willing to chase a ring, Philadelphia might be the perfect stage.

Mitchell and DeJean are the future. That’s never been in question. Mitchell is already locked into the outside CB role, with scouts whispering “All-Pro by Year 2.” DeJean could be the next weapon in the slot or even at safety — his versatility is both a gift and a puzzle.

But the kids need a grown-up in the room. A voice who’s seen Brady in January. Who’s heard the silence of a road stadium after a game-winning pick. Who knows that in this league, championships aren’t won on potential.

Stephon Gilmore isn’t just a name. He might be the bridge between the promise of tomorrow — and the banners of today.

Stay tuned to ESPN.