New England Patriots defensive tackle Christian Barmore has been cleared for football activity after enduring a difficult 2024 season marked by blood clots, which forced him to miss most of the season. The 2021 second-round pick, who had previously managed to return to the field in November, is now set to participate in voluntary organized team activities (OTAs) this week as he prepares for a potential return to the gridiron later this year.
Barmore was initially diagnosed with blood clots in July 2024 but was able to return to football activities in November, playing in just four games before being placed on the non-football illness list. The 28-year-old defensive tackle expressed his gratitude and resilience, stating, “Yeah. That’s the goal. I just have to keep following the medical team, but everything is looking really well.” He described the experience as one of the hardest times in his career, feeling like he did everything to recover but still faced the challenges of the illness.
Barmore’s recovery and potential return to the field are significant for the Patriots, who also faced a similar medical challenge with center David Andrews in 2019. Andrews was diagnosed with clots in his lungs and eventually returned to play in 2020. This shared experience highlights the importance of medical protocols and the resilience of NFL players in overcoming such health issues.
In his breakout 2023 season, Barmore recorded a career-high 8.5 sacks and 64 combined tackles over 17 games, which led the Patriots to sign him to a four-year extension worth a maximum of $92 million. The deal, which includes $41.8 million guaranteed at signing, was finalized before he began the final year of his rookie deal. His performance and commitment have been pivotal to the team’s success, and his return to full activity is anticipated to bolster their defensive line.
Barmore’s journey underscores the physical and mental challenges players face in the NFL, and his determination to recover and return to play has been a source of inspiration for teammates and fans alike. As he prepares to rejoin the team, his focus remains on following the medical team’s guidance and ensuring his health is prioritized, allowing him to contribute effectively to the Patriots’ defense when the season resumes.