NFL Trade Rumors: New England Patriots Defensive Tackle Christian Barmore Could Miss Regular Season

The New England Patriots could be in for a long 2024 season. According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, the Patriots are "bracing for the possibility" that star defensive tackle Christian Barmore could miss the entire regular season with a blood clot issue.

Barmore is coming off a breakout 2023 season in which he notched career highs in sacks (8.5), tackles for loss (13), and quarterback hits (16). The Patriots eagerly extended him earlier this offseason, inking him to a four-year, $84 million deal in his first year of extension eligibility.

That turned out to be unfortunate timing for the Patriots. Barmore was diagnosed with blood clots this summer and has been out indefinitely. The Patriots are reportedly willing to take their time with his recovery and view any availability this season as a bonus.

Being without Barmore could be a devastating blow for the Patriots. Barmore is arguably their most valuable player on defense, which is the strength of their team. The Patriots finished seventh in yards allowed in 2023, with Barmore leading the team in sacks and quarterback hits. Without him, the Patriots defense could regress nearer to the middle of the pack.

In the end, an ugly 2024 regular season could be part of the plan for the Patriots. They've already declared they won't start rookie quarterback Drake Maye to open the season, which is a concession that they don't believe they have the roster on offense to support him. Now that their defense may not be up to snuff either, the Patriots are in a position to bottom out this regular season, which could earn them the draft capital they need to replenish their roster for years to come. Even losing has its benefits.