Panthers' Stephon Gilmore 'looking forward' to matchup vs. Patriots, says it means 'a lot extra'

Panthers' Stephon Gilmore 'looking forward' to matchup vs. Patriots, says it means 'a lot extra'
Panthers' Stephon Gilmore 'looking forward' to matchup vs. Patriots, says it means 'a lot extra'
stephon-gilmore.jpg
Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

Carolina Panthers cornerback Stephon Gilmore made an impact in his first game with his new club, as he recorded two tackles, one pass defensed and made a fourth-quarter interception in the 19-13 win over the Atlanta Falcons. Now back to .500, next up for the Panthers is Gilmore's former team: the New England Patriots.

Just a few weeks ago, the Patriots made the decision to ship Gilmore away in exchange for a 2023 sixth-round pick. CBS Sports NFL insider Jonathan Jones reported that the Rock Hill, South Carolina, native had interest in playing close to home, and the Panthers were interested in adding another cornerback to the mix due to injuries suffered at the position. Gilmore began the season on the PUP list due to a torn quad suffered late last year, but he made it back just in time to take on his former team.

"Looking forward to it," Gilmore said with a smile when asked about the matchup, via the Panthers' official website

When asked if the matchup with the Patriots meant "a little extra," Gilmore replied saying: "A lot extra."

The Patriots have now won three straight games and -- like the Panthers -- are sitting at 4-4. This Sunday will be special for Gilmore for a couple of different reasons. Yes, he's taking on his former team, but he's also playing his first home game in a stadium he grew up around.

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