Patriots DT Christian Barmore’s expected return date finally set

Christian Barmore is reportedly “likely to practice” on Thursday

New England Patriots defensive tackle Christian Barmore is “likely to practice” on Thursday, per NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.

Barmore has not played this season after being diagnosed with blood clots. He has been on the non-football illness list and out indefinitely since the condition was revealed over the summer.

Patriots coach Jerod Mayo said Barmore could return either this week or next week when speaking with media members on Wednesday.

His return would be a big development for the Patriots. Firstly, it’s a feel-good story to see Barmore back doing what he loves. But it’s also a major lift to the Patriots defense considering he’s one of the team’s best players.

The Alabama product has recorded 133 tackles and 12.5 sacks in three seasons of play. He recorded 64 tackles and 8.5 sacks last season. Those numbers were both career-highs.

The Patriots view Barmore as one of the cornerstones of the organization considering they signed him to a four-year, $84 million extension in the offseason. That deal was the largest non-Tom Brady contract in franchise history.

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