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Stephon Gilmore Emerges from Retirement to Bolster Cowboys’ Secondary in 2025

Published: May 17, 2025

FRISCO, Texas – The Dallas Cowboys have welcomed back a familiar face to their secondary, as former All-Pro cornerback Stephon Gilmore announced his return from retirement on May 17, 2025, signing a one-year deal to contribute to the team’s 2025 campaign, sources told ESPN. The 13-year veteran, who briefly retired in February 2025 after a season away from the NFL, aims to fortify a Cowboys defense in dire need of depth at cornerback.

Gilmore, 34, last played for the Cowboys in 2023, starting all 17 games and recording 68 tackles, 13 pass breakups, 2 interceptions, and a forced fumble, helping the team secure the NFC East title with a 12-5 record. His veteran presence was crucial after Trevon Diggs suffered a torn ACL, showcasing Gilmore’s ability to step up in high-pressure situations. “Stephon’s leadership and playmaking were invaluable,” said GM Jerry Jones. “We’re thrilled to have him back.”

The Cowboys’ secondary has been a concern heading into 2025. Diggs remains sidelined while recovering from knee surgery, rookie Shavon Revel is rehabbing an ACL injury, and Jourdan Lewis departed to the Jacksonville Jaguars. Despite trading for Kaiir Elam from the Buffalo Bills, the unit lacks a proven CB2 to complement DaRon Bland, who led the team with 9 interceptions in 2023. Gilmore’s return addresses this gap, bringing experience and stability.

Gilmore, a 2019 Defensive Player of the Year with the Patriots, boasts 141 career pass breakups and 31 interceptions across 171 games. His 2023 stint with Dallas proved he can still perform at a high level, earning a PFF coverage grade of 81.2. However, some scouts question his speed at this stage, noting a 4.53-second 40-yard dash in recent workouts, slower than his prime. Still, his instincts and physicality remain elite, as evidenced by his 15 tackles for loss over his career.

“I’ve got unfinished business in Dallas,” Gilmore told reporters. “I want to help this team win a Super Bowl and mentor the young guys.” His return aligns with new defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus’ aggressive scheme, which emphasizes man coverage and blitzing.

Fans on X erupted with excitement, one posting, “Gilmore’s back? Our secondary just got a major upgrade!” Analyst Daniel Jeremiah praised the move, saying, “He’s a low-risk, high-reward signing. Gilmore can still lock down receivers.” With Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, and George Pickens leading the offense, Gilmore’s veteran grit could propel the Cowboys past rivals like the Eagles at AT&T Stadium in their quest for Super Bowl LX.

Tre'von Moehrig Lavishes Praise on the One Who Replaced Him in His Absence
Can you believe it? A veteran star of the Carolina Panthers, Tre'von Moehrig, was suspended for a notorious "punch below the belt," but instead of being jealous, he's showering praise on his "replacement"! What's going on with this team? Read now for the "hot off the press" details from Week 13! The Carolina Panthers just caused an earthquake by defeating the Los Angeles Rams in Week 13, despite missing a slew of key players. Under the "wizardry" of head coach Dave Canales, the team showcased incredible resilience. But the real spotlight belongs to Tre'von Moehrig – the Panthers' top safety, who's sidelined due to a suspension after punching wide receiver Jauan Jennings from the San Francisco 49ers below the belt. Yet, instead of sulking, Moehrig watched from home and... "went wild" over the performance of the rookie who stepped in for him! That's none other than Lathan Ransom, the young gun selected in the 4th round of the draft, who "stole" Moehrig's spot and turned it into his own stage. Ransom not only led the team with 11 tackles but also made his mark with a "top-notch" sack! Moehrig, with his wealth of experience, couldn't hide his excitement: "Man, I was hype (for Lathan Ransom's sack). I could see it all as the play was happening. I was like, Oh, there you go. I could see it all the way. So I was happy for him to get his first sack. He had a great game, and I'm just excited. Sky's the limit for him." (Translation: "Oh man, I was so hyped (for Lathan Ransom's sack). I could see everything as the play unfolded. I was like, Oh, there you go. I saw it all the way. So I was happy for him to get his first sack. He had a great game, and I'm just excited. The sky's the limit for him." This "sweet as honey" praise from Moehrig not only affirms Ransom's talent but also raises the question: Is this "replacement" threatening the starting positions of Moehrig and Nick Scott – the current starting safety duo? Panthers fans have been "whispering" about this for a while, after witnessing Ransom shine in summer practices and his flashy cameo appearances. With this impressive performance, Ransom is sure to get more opportunities, especially as the Panthers are "heating up" in the race for the NFC South championship! At 23 years old, Ransom is seen as a "rough diamond" with explosive potential, thanks to the Panthers' sharp personnel strategy. And Moehrig? This guy was signed as a "bargain" from the free agent market, and his leadership and positive attitude have completely transformed the team's defense in just his first season. That influence is spreading strongly to Ransom – the kid who shares many similarities and is gradually "transforming" into a future star. But that's not all – the lesson from Moehrig is accelerating the "youth revolution" at the Panthers! With this public praise, Moehrig isn't just acknowledging Ransom's growth but also igniting ambition for the entire team. Will the Panthers continue to "soar high" with this new generation? Don't miss out – follow now for the next drama in the NFL!