PHILADELPHIA, PA — October 14, 2025
The Philadelphia Eagles are reportedly closing in on a blockbuster trade to acquire five-time Pro Bowl cornerback Stephon Gilmore to replace Adoree’ Jackson, league sources confirmed early Tuesday. The move is aimed at shoring up a defense that has struggled through the first six weeks of the 2025 season, particularly in the secondary.
Philadelphia’s cornerback room has been a point of concern, highlighted by Jackson’s benching and inconsistent performances from younger players like Kelee Ringo and Quinyon Mitchell. Through six games, the Eagles’ pass defense ranks near the bottom of the NFC, allowing critical explosive plays and big-yard completions that have contributed to several early losses.
In response to the team’s defensive struggles, general manager Howie Roseman has aggressively pursued a proven veteran, and Gilmore quickly emerged as the top target. The proposed trade reportedly involves sending draft picks to the New England Patriots, giving the Eagles a chance to immediately upgrade their secondary. Gilmore, 33, has built an elite résumé over more than a decade in the NFL, earning five Pro Bowl selections and a 2019 Defensive Player of the Year honor.
Known for his ability to shut down top receivers, make critical tackles, and read offenses at a high level, Gilmore is expected to provide leadership and stability in a unit that has been criticized for breakdowns in coverage. His arrival could also help accelerate the development of younger cornerbacks on the roster, creating a more balanced and reliable secondary.
In a statement reflecting his mindset and commitment, Gilmore said:
“I came to Philadelphia to make an impact, to fight, and to help this defense reach its full potential. The Eagles don’t need heroes — they need players who fight with all their heart and for their teammates. And that’s exactly why I’m here.”
Philadelphia’s defensive coordinator, Vic Fangio, expressed optimism about the potential addition: “Stephon brings a veteran presence and the kind of football IQ that can elevate everyone around him. He’s exactly the type of player we need to turn our secondary into a strength.”
The trade, which remains unofficial pending medical evaluation and salary cap clearance, signals a renewed urgency from the Eagles’ front office to address defensive weaknesses. Analysts have noted that pairing Gilmore with Mitchell, once healthy, could form one of the most complete cornerback duos in the NFC.
For Philadelphia, the timing is critical. The team sits in the middle of the NFC East standings and is facing mounting pressure to remain a playoff contender after a slow start. The addition of Gilmore would not only improve the defense on the field but also send a message to the locker room: the Eagles are committed to competing at the highest level and addressing weaknesses head-on.
While New England has been open to moving the veteran cornerback in exchange for draft capital, sources say the Patriots also value Gilmore’s leadership in the locker room. The deal, if finalized, represents a calculated risk for Philadelphia, investing heavily in a short-term veteran boost to pursue long-term playoff success.
If completed, the acquisition of Stephon Gilmore could redefine the Eagles’ secondary and provide the stability and leadership needed to turn a struggling defense into one of the league’s most respected units.
