Stephon Gilmore arguably has been the MVP of the New England Patriots this season. But how about MVP of the entire league?
NBC Sports' Chris Simms believes the Pats' shutdown cornerback deserves to be in the MVP conversation, not just Defensive Player of the Year. It isn't the most popular take considering the play of star quarterbacks Lamar Jackson and Russell Wilson, but it certainly puts a spotlight on Gilmore's sensational season.
"He should probably be in the MVP discussion," Simms said of Gilmore on Pro Football Talk. "[The Patriots] are doing historic 1985 Bears, 2000 Ravens things. He is a big part of that. He shuts down the No. 1 receiver every week."
"I just want to be clear, are you saying Defensive MVP or the whole shebang?" PFT's Mike Florio asked.
"The whole shebang," said Simms. "That's what I'm saying."
Watch below (Gilmore talk begins at 2:30 mark):
New England Patriots
No matter the individual accolades Gilmore earns or misses out on after the season, he's a major reason the Patriots are in a position to make yet another deep playoff run. His dominance has helped offset the offense's struggles all year long.
He'll look to help the Patriots defense's historic run continue on Sunday when they visit the Houston Texans. Kickoff for the Week 13 matchup is set for 8:20 p.m. ET.
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