New England Patriots' defensive tackle Christian Barmore has had quite the journey during his first four years in the NFL. The defensive tackle was the Patriots' second-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft.
Barmore had a strong first two seasons in the league, playing in 27 games, accumulating 69 tackles and four sacks. Then he broke out in his third season.
In 2023, Barmore surpassed nearly all his totals from his first two years combined. The Alabama product recorded 64 tackles, 13 TFLs, 8.5 sacks, and 16 quarterback hits.
Barmore headed into the 2024 season ready to build on his breakout 2023 campaign before health issues got in the way.
New England Patriots defensive end Christian Barmore (90) walks to the practice field at the Patriots training camp at Gillette Stadium.
New England Patriots defensive end Christian Barmore (90) walks to the practice field at the Patriots training camp at Gillette Stadium.
Eric Canha-Imagn Images
The defensive tackle faced life-threatening blood clots in 2024 and didn't appear in a game until November 17. Barmore played four games before his symptoms resurfaced and ended his season.
By the "blessing of God," Barmore overcame the blood clots once again and was cleared for football activity this spring. He's been a full participant in OTAs and will be at mandatory minicamp as well.
His efforts have not gone unnoticed, as head coach Mike Vrabel commented on the young talent Monday morning while speaking with the media.
"What I've seen is a player that is excited, that is coachable - extremely coachable. He has versatility, he's rushed inside, he's lined up outside. He's worked extremely hard," Vrabel said. "You've seen him chase and play with great effort, just down the field. So, excited to see where he's at. I've seen a lot of improvement and a lot of engagement from him since the time that we've been here."
Barmore is back on the field and ready to prove that he can reach the level of play he achieved before his health scare.
"Really just a lot of fire in my heart. After that situation, people forget who I am," Barmore told reporters Monday morning. "I'm bringing a lot of (competitiveness) with me, every day, when I'm on this field."
A healthy and productive Barmore will be crucial in beefing up the Patriots' defensive line alongside standout Milton Williams.