Dallas acquired veteran cornerback Stephon Gilmore from…
Dallas acquired veteran cornerback Stephon Gilmore from Indianapolis for a 2023 fifth-round pick that became running back Evan Hull. Gilmore immediately started all 17 regular-season games for a 12-win Cowboys team, intercepted two passes and strengthened a secondary that needed veteran stability. Indianapolis received little lasting production from Hull, making the one-year Gilmore rental easily worth the modest price.
Dallas Cowboys Received
- player Stephon Gilmore
Indianapolis Colts Received
- pick 2023 5th round pick (176th overall, Evan Hull)
Trade Analysis
What Changed Hands
Dallas sent a 2023 fifth-round pick to Indianapolis on March 14, 2023, and received veteran cornerback Stephon Gilmore. The Colts later used the 176th selection on Northwestern running back Evan Hull. It was a classic contender-versus-retooling transaction: Dallas paid a low draft price for a proven starter, while Indianapolis converted an older player into a rookie-contract asset.
Why Dallas Came Out Ahead
Gilmore gave the Cowboys exactly what a trade like this is supposed to buy. He started all 17 regular-season games in 2023, recorded two interceptions and helped stabilize the secondary during a 12-5 season. Dallas did not need a long-term commitment for the deal to work. One complete season of starting cornerback play on a division-winning roster was already substantial value for a fifth-round selection, especially at a premium defensive position.
How Indianapolis Fared
The Colts' return never approached that level. Hull entered the league as a developmental back and saw only limited regular-season action. Turning a veteran into a draft pick was understandable for Indianapolis, especially given Gilmore's age and contract status, but the eventual player selected did not provide enough production to balance what Dallas received.
Final Verdict
Dallas earns an A- and Indianapolis a D+. The Cowboys paid a modest price and got a full season from a decorated cornerback at a position of need. The Colts' fifth-round return produced very little on-field value. This is a clear Dallas Cowboys Win because the acquired veteran delivered precisely the short-term impact a contender wanted.