Stephon Gilmore Confirms He Won't Return to Cowboys

The Dallas Cowboys certainly had a frustrating offseason. Not only did Cowboys fans see multiple key starters depart in free agency, but they also haven't seen them replaced properly. One of those names that Jerry Jones & Co. have frustratingly not retained is star cornerback Stephon Gilmore.

Somehow, Gilmore is still on the market. Despite having an excellent season with the Cowboys last season, playing in every game, Dallas has chosen to play hardball with him. Speaking to NFL insider Josina Anderson, the Pro Bowl defender revealed why that has been the case.

"If I was 28, I would already have been signed by now; at the same time, I know the value I still bring. If you watch the tape, I feel like I played well the last two years, and literally almost played every snap last year. So I’m staying patient, while watching my son who’s a wide receiver and cornerback lock people up on the field with his defensive back skills too."

- Stephon Gilmore

This demonstrates the frustration Gilmore feels towards the Cowboys organization. It also reveals what the hold-up has been in negotiations. By stating that he "knows the value he still brings", Gilmore is highlighting his lack of intention to take an age-related discount. It also means that the Cowboys are unwilling to break the bank for him, resulting in the current situation.

It seems unlikely that the Cowboys will pay up for Gilmore this late into the offseason. They are concerned about the financial flexibility going forward because they have to give massive contracts to CeeDee Lamb, Micah Parsons, and Dak Prescott.

The 33-year-old cornerback understandably wants a lucrative deal for presumably his last big contract. It looks like he is going to have to find it elsewhere.

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