Stephon Gilmore Signs With Jordan Brand, Teammates Look For Gear Hookup

Robert Alvarez

3 years ago at 3:38 pm ET

Timothy T. Ludwig - USA TODAY Sports

On Wednesday, New England Patriots cornerback and reigning Defensive Player of the Year Stephon Gilmore was formally announced as the newest member of Jordan brand.

Gilmore took part in a Q&A session with the company following the announcement, here’s a few notable takeaways.

On letting his game speak for itself.

“I wouldn’t say I’m quiet, but I just like to focus on my game. I feel like if I focus more on my game and my opponent, I’ll be the better player and not have any distractions. I let my game do the talking. I keep everything in my head, work hard, prepare hard and study hard. Once I’m on that field, there are no friends for me, doesn’t matter who it is.”

On the importance of preparation and being a student of the game.

“That’s one big thing about me. I’m the player I am today because of my preparation and how I study my opponents. There probably aren’t any of my opponents’ plays that I haven’t watched on film. And I practice hard. I make more plays in practice than I make in a game. The game is the easy part.”

Where did Gilmore’s sense of leadership come from?

“I’m the oldest of six kids, so I always had to lead the way. I always had to lead by example, and I try to translate that onto the football field. Anybody in my locker room, especially the corners, will tell you that I’m willing to teach them everything I know. I try to help as much as I can, because eventually, I won’t be playing anymore. I want those guys to have great careers and do the same thing for the next generation.”

(You can read the full announcement and more of Gilmore’s Q&A HERE.)

A few teammates later took part in some funny ribbing of Gilmore following the announcement, most were expecting some free gear.

Between @BumpNrunGilm0re and @zeus30hightower the defense gonna need some gear! (Jmac) https://t.co/w5iOYp3gGl

— Devin&Jason McCourty (@McCourtyTwins) April 15, 2020