Stephon Gilmore Reportedly Expected to Sign Contract with Patriots

Former Buffalo Bills cornerback Stephon Gilmore is reportedly expected to sign with the rival New England Patriots on Thursday.

ESPN's Adam Schefter was the first to report the news, and NFL Network's Ian Rapoport added that Gilmore is expected to earn more than $14 million per year. 

According to Schefter, the contract is for five years, and worth $40 million in guaranteed money. 

Per Spotrac, a $14 million cap hit in 2017 would rank Gilmore fifth among NFL cornerbacks ahead of both Patrick Peterson and Richard Sherman.

Gilmore enjoyed his best statistical season in 2016, as he registered 48 tackles and a career-high five interceptions en route to his first Pro Bowl.

According to ESPN.com, however, Pro Football Focus rated Gilmore as the NFL's No. 61 cornerback last season after ranking him 14th in 2015.

The 26-year-old former South Carolina standout will join a Patriots secondary that was 12th in the league against the pass last season.

Per Rapoport, Gilmore's impending arrival likely means Logan Ryan will leave in free agency.

Gilmore figures to form a starting corner tandem with 2015 Pro Bowler Malcolm Butler provided the Pats don't lose him as a restricted free agent.

Despite Gilmore's struggles at times in 2016, his departure leaves Buffalo with a huge hole in its secondary, as Ronald Darby is the only other cornerback on its roster with extensive starting experience.