In Stunning Move, Patriots Trade Top Defensive Player

The New England Patriots have traded cornerback Stephon Gilmore to the Carolina Panthers for a 2023 sixth-round draft pick.

Gilmore, who has not played this season due while rehabbing a quad injury and in the midst of a contract dispute, was the NFL's Defensive Player of the Year in 2019. The 31-year-old was in the final year of a five-year, $65 million deal.

The trade came hours after reports the team was releasing him.

"It is with mixed emotions that I announce my goodbye to this great fan base," Gilmore said in a morning statement. "We enjoyed so much success together and you have been an incredible inspiration for my individual achievements. Thank you for supporting this Rock Hill kid and allowing him to achieve his NFL dreams."

Gilmore was a key part of the Patriots defense that beat the Rams in Super Bowl LIII. He remained a great defender, but was injured late last season and started this year on the physically unable to perform list. He was ineligible to play for the team until Week 7.

The Patriots are 1-3 after Sunday night's loss to Tom Brady and the Buccaneers. They have a chance to right the ship this weekend against a woeful Houston Texans team.

The Panthers — and Gilmore — are on the schedule later this year.