The New England Patriots went to the Super Bowl last season, but their team could experience some major changes this offseason.
The Patriots have some star players who could be potential trade or cut candidates. Christian Barmore has $48 million in base salary remaining on his contract, and will have an additional $10 million of his contract guaranteed on the third league day of this year. ESPN's Aaron Schatz called him a change-of-scenery candidate on Wednesday.
"The Patriots would definitely need to find an on-field replacement for Barmore's interior pass-rushing skills," wrote Schatz. "Last season, he had 11 quarterback hits and two sacks. However, Barmore is facing an assault and battery charge, and New England might want to make a change and focus more on improving on the edge."
Barmore has been with the Patriots since 2021. He was a second-round pick out of the University of Alabama. He has played in 65 games for the Patriots and started 16 games last season.
Barmore's best season came in 2023 when he had 8.5 sacks. However, he missed most of the following season, dealing with life-threatening blood clots, per MassLive’s Chris Mason. He did not appear in a game until November of that season, but played in just four games due to symptoms recurring.
Barmore bounced back last season and proved he can be a solid piece for the Patriots. However, his off-the-field issues and contract could open the door for the Patriots to cut him loose and reinvest elsewhere. By releasing him after June 1, the Patriots could create $11.5 million in cap savings for this year.
More NFL: Patriots Should Avoid Signing This Pro Bowler Who Could Be Released Soon