Stephon Gilmore made a significant impression on the Dallas Cowboys after joining the team in 2023, initially brought in to add leadership and depth at cornerback. Following Trevon Diggs‘ ACL injury early in the season, Gilmore stepped up into a starting role without hesitation. He started all 17 games and recorded 13 passes defended, marking his best performance in that category since earning Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2019.
Now a free agent, Gilmore remains interested in playing during the 2025 season but has stressed that his decision hinges on finding the right team and situation. This leaves fans and management wondering if the Cowboys will be able to convince him to return, especially since the team’s secondary has been hit hard by injuries and personnel changes.
What Gilmore’s Return Could Mean for Dallas
Gilmore’s comments about seeking the “right situation” should catch the attention of Cowboys owner Jerry Jones. Although Gilmore visited The Star during the offseason, no agreement was made, but reports suggest that the team is interested in bringing him back. Financial terms and the promise of contending for another Super Bowl championship could play significant roles in his eventual decision. Gilmore has only one Super Bowl win to his name, dating back to his 2018 title with the New England Patriots, and is eager to compete at the highest level again.
Returning to Dallas would offer Gilmore the chance to fill a starting spot with a team expected to be playoff contenders. The Cowboys’ secondary faces challenges, as DaRon Bland is the only healthy returning starter. Jourdan Lewis was not re-signed, and Trevon Diggs continues to recover from another knee surgery. Even 2025 third-round pluck Shavon Revel is still striving to be ready for training camp.
Depth Concerns in the Secondary and Gilmore’s Potential Role
Due to injuries and a lack of experienced players, the Cowboys have been forced to work with somewhat unproven talent in the offseason. Andrew Booth, for instance, took reps with the first team during workouts, highlighting the thin depth. While Kaiir Elam showed promise in OTAs and minicamp, his track record since entering the NFL with Buffalo in 2022 is still developing, and relying on him as a starter opposite Bland remains uncertain.
The addition of Gilmore would immediately stabilize the cornerback group, allowing the team to confidently deploy Bland, Gilmore, and Elam as their top three corners. Furthermore, it would give Revel the opportunity to gradually reintegrate into the lineup without undue pressure. This mix of experience and youth could prove vital for Dallas as they prepare for a demanding season ahead.
Urgency Around Gilmore’s Signing
With training camp approaching soon, the window for the Cowboys to secure Gilmore is closing rapidly. His desire to find the right team means other teams could also be interested in his services. Jerry Jones and the Dallas Cowboys must act swiftly if they intend to regain a proven defender who can help solidify their secondary — a vital aspect if they hope to maintain or improve their playoff status in the coming years.
It’s just gotta be the right situation…I’m not just going to sign anywhere, it’s gotta be the right situation. I still love the game. I still can contribute. It just gotta be the right place.
—Stephon Gilmore, Cornerback