The New England Patriots may have to face the 2024 season without Christian Barmore, their standout defensive tackle, who has been sidelined due to blood clots since late July. Despite being listed on the Non-Football Injury List, there are concerns that Barmore may not be cleared to play this season. The team is taking a cautious approach to his recovery, with no intention of rushing his return. Head coach Jerod Mayo emphasized that they will wait for Barmore to be fully healthy before bringing him back into the lineup.
Barmore, who signed a lucrative contract extension worth up to $92 million in the offseason, had a breakout year in 2023 with impressive statistics. If he does not play in 2024, the Patriots are reportedly committed to paying his full salary, a rare move as teams are not obligated to do so for players on the NFI list. This decision reflects the team’s long-term investment in Barmore, recognizing his potential as a game-changing player on their defense.
The Patriots have dealt with blood clotting issues before, as starting center David Andrews missed the entire 2019 season due to similar health concerns. As Barmore navigates his recovery, the team remains focused on his well-being and future success above immediate on-field performance. While his absence will be felt on the field, the Patriots are prioritizing the health and longevity of their promising defensive star.
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