The Patriots are preparing for their Week 1 matchup against the Seahawks in the first-ever Wednesday Night Football game, but they're dealing with a few key absences that could become a major problem by game time.
In one of their final practices before heading to Seattle, they were already down running back TreVeyon Henderson, who hasn't practiced with the team since August 24 because he's dealing with an apparent ankle injury. If he can't suit up for Wednesday's game, that's a big loss for the offense that could derail their plans.
Even worse, they're now dealing with Christian Barmore, who was absent from Sunday's practice without explanation, and that could prove to be even more problematic for the Patriots' defense, as they are about to face a star-studded Seahawks offense.
Because it could just be precautionary, it might not be time to worry too much. But it's difficult not to think about the struggles the defensive line would face without Barmore on the field, and that's far from what this team needs to start their 2026 season.
The Patriots add another defensive absence to their latest practice ahead of Week 1
A Super Bowl rematch isn't exactly how most teams want to start their next season, and it's fair to assume the Patriots aren't thrilled to face off against the Seahawks after they embarrassed them just 7 months ago.
Although it will be a time for redemption, they won't have their best chance to steal a win out West if some of their best players, including Barmore, aren't able to play.
The defensive tackle has become a mainstay on the defense since he was drafted, and while he's had an up-and-down tenure in that time, pairing him up with Milton Williams has proven to be a recipe for success, as the duo has become one of the best pairings in the league after just one season together.
Expectations are high for what they can accomplish this fall, and it would be a brutal blow if Barmore is unable to start the season on the field this week.
It would certainly put a lot of pressure on the backups, who most don't feel all that comfortable with, and it could be a difference-maker that swings the game in the Seahawks' favor even more.
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