Stephon Gilmore’s latest comments provide Cowboys major reason for optimism

The Dallas Cowboys opted to continue what’s become a bit of tradition, choosing to start free agency off quietly. Instead of making a splash with a big signing or adding multiple players immediately, it seems the Cowboys had their attention on a few potential trades.

Although the Cowboys’ deal to acquire wide receiver Brandin Cooks from the Houston Texans was the headliner, Dallas made some noise prior to that by acquiring veteran cornerback Stephon Gilmore from the Indianapolis Colts. The addition of Gilmore could prove to be a big one if he’s healthy and can remain that way this season. Fortunately, his latest comments provide major optimism on that front.

As The Athletic’s Jon Machota detailed, Gilmore discussed the injuries which impacted his stop prior to Indianapolis as a member of the Carolina Panthers.

“You go through things in your career, you got to fight through it,” Gilmore said. “I feel good now, running around. It’s the best I’ve felt in two or three years. I’m looking forward to this season, making plays like I normally do.”

Gilmore started 16 games last season for the Colts and had a strong year, the potential to build off that with the Cowboys in a situation where he feels even better physically is a major positive. Injecting the 32-year-old Pro Bowler into a secondary that already features Trevon Diggs, Jourdan Lewis, and DaRon Bland could make for must-see television, especially if Gilmore can reap the benefits of playing alongside Diggs.

In the hypothetical where Gilmore is able to play at a high level and remain healthy could provide a huge boost to an already exceptional defensive unit. Diggs is another player who could directly see a positive impact from Gilmore’s addition, as it could become tougher for opposing quarterbacks to make a habit of not targeting him often.

Building off the belief that Gilmore is entering this season with some added juice and fresh legs may lead to the Cowboys’ secondary wreaking havoc and creating one of the most dangerous groups in the entire NFL.