New England Patriots’ defensive tackle Christian Barmore is poised to make a triumphant return to the football field after a challenging 2024 season marred by health setbacks. The 25-year-old, a second-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, was diagnosed with blood clots in July 2024, a condition that sidelined him for most of the season. However, on Thursday, May 15, 2025, Barmore received the green light to resume football activities, marking a significant milestone in his recovery journey.
A Difficult Journey
Barmore’s 2024 season was abruptly disrupted when he was diagnosed with blood clots during the early stages of the Patriots’ training camp. The diagnosis came as a shock, with symptoms including shortness of breath and swelling in his right calf, which initially seemed minor but proved to be life-threatening. The Patriots’ medical staff, led by trainer Jim Whalen, played a crucial role in identifying the issue early, potentially saving Barmore’s life. “Blood clots are no joke,” Barmore said, reflecting on the severity of his condition. “I had real bad shortness of breath, and it messed with me a lot.”
Initially, Barmore was told he might miss the entire 2024 season. He was placed on the non-football illness list, and his return seemed uncertain. Despite the setback, Barmore remained determined, drawing inspiration from teammate David Andrews, who faced a similar ordeal in 2019 when diagnosed with blood clots in his lungs. Andrews, a veteran center, missed the entire 2019 season but returned to play in 2020, offering Barmore both guidance and motivation. “That man DA’s a legend,” Barmore said of Andrews. “He kept my head up, every time I needed to talk to him, he motivated me to keep fighting.”
A Glimmer of Hope
Barmore’s resilience paid off when he returned to the field in November 2024, playing in four games and recording six tackles and one sack. However, recurring symptoms forced him back onto the non-football illness list in December 2024, raising concerns about his long-term health and football career. The Patriots, prioritizing Barmore’s well-being, took a cautious approach, ensuring he received the necessary medical evaluations and treatment.
Throughout his recovery, Barmore remained a presence at Gillette Stadium, engaging with the team through activities like presenting humorous clips during team meetings, a task assigned by head coach Jerod Mayo to keep him connected. “I was doing everything I could just to come back for this team last year,” Barmore said. The support from his teammates, coaches, and the Patriots’ organization was instrumental in his mental and physical recovery.
Cleared for Action
On May 15, 2025, Barmore announced that he had been cleared for football activity, a development that has sparked excitement among Patriots fans and the organization. He is set to be a full participant in the team’s voluntary organized team activities (OTAs) starting next week. “Yeah, that’s the goal. I just have to keep following the medical team, but everything is looking really well,” Barmore said, expressing optimism about his return.
Head coach Mike Vrabel, who took over the Patriots’ helm in the offseason, highlighted Barmore’s importance to the team. “When he walked into the training room, just his energy and presence, I know that he’s feeling better,” Vrabel said at the NFL annual meeting. The Patriots view Barmore as a cornerstone of their defense, a belief reinforced by his four-year, $92 million contract extension signed in April 2024, which included $41.8 million in guaranteed money.
A Bright Future Ahead
Barmore’s return is a significant boost for a Patriots team looking to rebuild after a challenging 2024 season. A standout performer in 2023, Barmore recorded 8.5 sacks and 13 tackles for loss, establishing himself as one of the NFL’s premier interior pass rushers. His potential pairing with free-agent signing Milton Williams, who inked a four-year, $104 million deal, could form one of the league’s most dynamic defensive tackle duos, addressing the Patriots’ need for a stronger pass rush.
Despite the excitement, Barmore acknowledges that he is still working toward regaining his game shape. “I’m really just enjoying the game that I love again, not worrying about the stuff that was holding me back last year,” he said. His focus remains on staying healthy and contributing to the team’s success, with the ultimate goal of being ready for Week 1 of the 2025 season.
A Lesson in Resilience
Barmore’s journey is a testament to perseverance and the importance of a supportive team environment. His experience has also given him a new perspective on life and football. “Don’t ever take anything for granted, man. I could have lost my life,” he said, reflecting on the gravity of his diagnosis. “When my doctor told me that, I got closer with God. He brings his toughest battles to his toughest soldiers.”
As Barmore prepares to return to the gridiron, his story serves as an inspiration to teammates and fans alike. The Patriots, who have faced similar challenges with players like David Andrews in the past, are optimistic about Barmore’s future. With his health on the mend and his passion for the game reignited, Christian Barmore is ready to make his mark once again in New England.