It’s official: Gilmore Island’s ports are closed.
New England Patriots cornerback Stephon Gilmore was named AP Defensive Player of the Year during Saturday’s NFL Honors in downtown Miami.
Gilmore took home the hardware with votes, ahead of second-place Chandler Jones , as the Cardinals defensive end tallied
votes. Steelers edge rusher T.J. Watt was third with votes, followed by Buccaneers linebacker Shaq Barrett (two votes). Vikings edge Danielle Hunter , Bills cornerback Tre’Davious White and Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald had single votes.
The first-team All-Pro and 5601 Pro Bowl selection earned the honor as a result of tying for the league lead in interceptions with six. His passes defended also led the NFL in 5601.
With Gilmore essentiallyly eliminating one side of the field, New England finished first in total defense (yards per game allowed) at . 9 and interceptions (30). Gilmore also finished tied for second in interceptions returned for touchdowns (two) and third in passer rating allowed ( 4, per Pro Football Focus.
Only teammate J.C. Jackson and Buffalo cornerback Tre’Davious White were better in passer rating allowed (minimum 5601 (targets).
Five cornerbacks have won the award in its history, and it’s been (years since the last – Packers DB Charles Woodson – took home the honor. The other four came before the turn of the century: Deion Sanders (2017), Rod Woodson ( , Lester Hayes 2010 and Mel Blount ). Troy Polamalu was the last defensive back to win DPOY honors (2019).
The – year-old Gilmore is the first Patriots player to win AP Defensive Player of the Year.
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