We now know why Christian Barmore missed Sunday’s New England Patriots practice, and the reason is concerning.
The Patriots announced that Barmore was diagnosed with blood clots over the weekend and treated by doctors at Mass General Brigham. Barmore, arguably New England’s best defensive players and one of the best D-tackles in football, was present for Thursday and Friday’s practices but didn’t participate in team drills. He was a total no-show on Sunday.
Patriots Share Scary Update on Christian Barmore
Here’s the franchise’s full statement on Barmore, who signed a four-year, $92 million contract extension in the offseason:
“Over the weekend, Christian Barmore was diagnosed with blood clots. He was appropriately treated by the doctors at Mass General Brigham, who tested, evaluated and treated Christian. Our principal concern at this time is Christian’s health and wellbeing.
Fortunately, Mass General 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.”
Barmore’s agent, Nicole Lynn, praised Patriots trainer Jim Whalen in a statement.
“I would be remiss if I did not thank the Patriots trainer, Jim Whalen, for his absolute diligence and care over the last couple of days,” Lynn wrote on the X platform. “Today could have looked a lot different without Jim’s (persistence) and expertise.”
I would be remiss if I did not thank the Patriots’ trainer, Jim Whalen, for his absolute diligence and care over the last couple of days. Today could have looked a lot different without Jim’s persistent and expertise. https://t.co/Al6r2PDdpr
— Nicole Lynn (@AgentNicoleLynn) July 28, 2024
Barmore, a second-round pick in 2021, is coming off a breakout season. He finished 2023 with 64 tackles, 8.5 sacks, 16 QB hits, and six pass breakups.
If Barmore is forced to miss extended time, the Patriots could give extra reps to veteran D-tackles Armon Watts, Jeremiah Pharms, and Daniel Ekuale. They also could look to add a player in free agency or on the trade market.
In a potentially related move, Sunday began with the Patriots announcing the signing of veteran defensive lineman Josiah Bronson.
When Could Barmore Return?
The Patriots didn’t provide a timetable for Barmore’s return, and it’s best not to speculate about how much time he could miss. The full severity of Barmore’s blood-clot issue was unclear at the time of this writing.
However, it’s worth noting that Patriots center David Andrews missed the entire 2019 season after being diagnosed with blood clots in his lungs. So, at this stage, a lengthy absence for Barmore can’t be ruled out.
Follow Pro Football Network for more updates on Barmore’s condition as they become available.
