Free Agent Idea: Could Houston Texans Sign Veteran Corner Stephon Gilmore?

The Houston Texans are still in need of a starting-caliber second corner on the boundary. Could Dallas Cowboys corner Stephon Gilmore be a fit?

The Houston Texans have recently added to their secondary by signing cornerbacks Jeff Okudah and C.J. Henderson, two former top-10 picks turned castaways. In doubling down on high-level athletes in need of a change of scenery, Houston is making a move with little financial downside.

However, giving either a starting spot is a risk in itself – especially for a team with Super Bowl aspirations.

The Texans can’t afford to have a liability opposite corner Derek Stingley Jr. on the boundary.

Dec 10, 2023; Arlington, Texas, USA; Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown (11) fumbles the

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As such, free agency may offer recourse to those less optimistic about their recent acquisitions.

In the 33rd Team’s matchmaking of remaining free agents, Houston finds itself veteran corner Stephon Gilmore.

“Stephon Gilmore might no longer be the Defensive Player of the Year candidate he was at his peak, but his aggressive style of play and ball-hawk instincts could be a perfect match opposite Derek Stingley,” Dan Pizzuta wrote. “At 33 years old, Gilmore played all 17 games for the Cowboys last season. Although some big plays were given up, he remained one of the best at playing the ball and limiting receptions on targets.”

He’s lost a step since his prime, but held up adequately in man coverage after a rocky start to the season. In fact, by Pro Football Focus’ grading, he ranked 11th among 83 qualified corners in man coverage, compared to 40th in zone coverage. Fans may remember his game-sealing interception against Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert.

Gilmore mirrors veteran corner Steven Nelson, who held the job last season. It’s possible he has a similar, if not greater, impact on the young corners he’d hypothetically find himself around. Whether it be Stingley, Okudah, Henderson, or a potential rookie acquisition.

Head coach DeMeco Ryans explained that both free-agent signings would be competing for a spot, though it isn’t yet known how much playing time they’ll be fighting for. A Gilmore signing would inevitably knock them down the pecking order, and for good reason. When the going gets tough and the elite passing offenses of the AFC come knocking, having someone that can be isolated and picked on is a death sentence.

Quarterback C.J. Stroud has proven he can elevate Houston’s offense enough to be competitive. Bringing in Gilmore makes the Texans that much closer to giving Stroud a defense his performance warrants.