Report: Patriots' Gilmore to undergo surgery on torn quad

New England Patriots cornerback Stephon Gilmore suffered a partially torn quad and will undergo surgery on Tuesday, sources told NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

Gilmore avoided what was initially believed to be a serious knee injury in Sunday's contest against the Miami Dolphins. He's expected to fully recover before the start of next season, Rapoport adds.

The reigning Defensive Player of the Year went down in the second quarter, grabbing the back of his right leg. Multiple staff members had to help him off the field.

Gilmore previously missed three games this season due to a knee injury.

The South Carolina product has provided solid coverage on the perimeter when healthy this season. He's credited with allowing 17 completions on 33 targets for a 52% completion rate, according to Mark Daniels of The Providence Journal.

Gilmore has one interception this season to go along with 37 tackles. He racked up six interceptions and 20 passes defended during his All-Pro 2019 campaign.

The 30-year-old's injury came on the day the Patriots were officially ruled out of the postseason for the first time since 2008.

J.C. Jackson will take over New England's top cornerback spot. Jonathan Jones could also see an increase in playing time.

The Patriots (6-8) will try to knock off the AFC East-champion Buffalo Bills (11-3) on Dec. 28 on Monday Night Football.

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