Christian Barmore Set to Make 2024 Patriots Debut

The New England Patriots opened up a spot on their 53-man roster Saturday with wide receiver Tyquan Thornton’s release. The motivation behind creating a roster spot became clearer later in the day. It was announced that defensive lineman Christian Barmore would be added back to the 53-man roster and is expected to make his 2024 debut on Sunday against the Los Angeles Rams.

Barmore had been on the reserve/non-football injury list all season. He received a blood clot diagnosis at the end of July, keeping him inactive throughout the preseason. He landed on the reserve/NFI list when rosters were reduced to 53 at the end of camp. The one positive omen at the time was that Barmore was designated to return this season, though it was unclear how likely a 2024 return would be. Now it appears Barmore will play for New England in Week 11.

The #Patriots are activating star DL Christian Barmore from the non-football illness list, sources say.

Barmore is officially back, and he should play on Sunday. A long road to the field. pic.twitter.com/11KE6DV1JR

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 16, 2024

Also Read – Identifying the New England Patriots Core Players Moving Forward

Welcome Back

Christian Barmore was the New England Patriots’ best defensive player in 2023. He went from good to great last season. Barmore recorded career highs in combined tackles (64), solo tackles (39), quarterback hits (16), sacks (8.5), and passes defended (six). His breakout campaign earned him a four-year contract extension in the offseason worth up to $92 million.

Barmore began practicing with the Patriots on Thursday. It was the first time he’s been seen on the field since his medical diagnosis sidelined him. After not participating in football activities for so long, it is unclear what to expect from Barmore immediately. However, his return in any capacity is a great sign for his long-term prognosis. With that said, Barmore can make a positive difference right away, even if he is limited to a small number of pass-rush packages.

New England listed defensive linemen Deatrich Wise Jr., Jaquelin Roy, and Daniel Ekuale among those questionable for Sunday’s game against the Los Angeles Rams. If any of those players are unable to go for the Patriots, Barmore’s return becomes even more valuable.

Christian Barmore’s presence should give the New England Patriots an emotional boost on Sunday. Regardless of what he can do in the stat collum, getting back one of the team’s core players months after his NFL future and personal health were very much in doubt is outstanding news by any measure.