What It Means:

Gilmore is the team's usual starting corner opposite Malcolm Butler, so Gilmore's absence could be an upgrade for Jameis Winston and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' passing game. That will especially be the case with fellow corner Eric Rowe (groin) out, which could force Jonathan Jones into action on prime time.

Gilmore received a big $65 million deal this offseason, but he hasn't had a big impact on the Patriots' defense. Through 4 games, New England ranks dead last in passing yards (1,296) and places in a tie for last in passing scores (11).