Restricting the Bears to just a field goal on Sunday, the Patriots are set for a major boost in their defensive setup. Defensive tackle Christian Barmore, who was diagnosed with blood clots this summer, is set to graze the field this week. Fighting with life and death for over three months, Barmore returns to the Patriots’ practice before they take on the Rams in week 11.

Slowly coming out of the non-football illness list, the Patriots released a statement when Barmore was set to undergo treatment, “Our principal concern at this time is Christian’s health and well-being. Fortunately, Mass Brigham provides some of the best healthcare in the world. While there is no current timetable for his return, we know Christian is getting tremendous care, and we look forward to his full recovery.” Well, that time is finally here, as Barmore remains forever grateful to the Patriots athletic training staff.

As per NFL insider Ian Rapoport, Barmore never stayed away from Foxborough throughout his illness. This led to him expressing his gratitude towards Jim Whalen and his whole athletic training staff for saving his life. Even at the time when Barmore was in his initial stages of recovery, he thanked everyone for their support and prayers, “Thank you, everyone, for all the support, thoughts and prayers. I’ll be back soon.”

Well, Patriots coach Jerod Mayo also teased Barmore’s return on Wednesday, “There is a chance that he would be able to practice this week or next week, so there is a chance that we’ll get him back soon.” His coming back would indeed be welcome news for the Patriots’ defense, which has struggled to contain the running game.

Although it’s still unlikely whether he will be playing any part against the Rams on Sunday, Barmore’s return does give the Patriots some hope to salvage their season moving forward. As veteran DT Davon Godchaux can’t wait to have him back, “He’s a lot better pass rusher, so having him on the field helps me out. It’s good getting another playmaker out on the field to help us and get the defense back on the right track. I can’t wait for it.” Indeed, he has been a special part of New England’s defense since getting picked in 2021.

Christian Barmore’s time in New England

Just a few days before the Patriots handed Barmore a $84M contract extension, he landed on the non-football illness list. However, his importance in the Patriots’ D-line cannot be ill-spoken. After getting picked from Alabama as the Patriots’ second-round choice in 2021, Barmore has played over 44 games. Among these 11, came as a starter in New England. Last season was his best year to date, as he recorded 64 tackles alongside 8.5 sacks.

He also racked up 16 QB hits and a forced fumble over the 17 games he played last year. Still only just 25, Barmore has a lot ahead of him. And the Patriots, who are looking to rebuild under Mayo. Barmore would surely play a huge role in their defense over the next few years. Even Mayo, who likes to set his team up in an old-fashioned way, will cherish the idea of adding Barmore to his plans.

As Foxborough waits for their premier pass-rusher to play his first game this season, the Patriots could stage a late rally in the following weeks. With the postseason coming up, Barmore could help the Patriots stage more upsets like the one they pulled off in Chicago.