The expectations for the Patriots 2024 season were far lower than they had been in the past, mainly due to Bill Belichick's departure and Jerod Mayo's arrival with his almost entirely new staff. On top of that, rookie quarterback Drake Maye was added to an underwhelming supporting cast on offense, and for the most part, the season has lived up to the offseason predictions.
However, the team was hit with significant injuries to key players starting in the summer. The shocking health concern with defensive tackle Christian Barmore put his 2024 season in doubt, especially since David Andrews dealt with a similar issue years ago and was sidelined for the entire year.
That was the expectation for Barmore this year, with Mayo consistently providing updates on the rising star, until that changed in the days leading to the Patriots' matchup with the Rams on Sunday.
Like other injured players, David Andrews and Ja'Whaun Bentley, Barmore has been around the team all season, attending practice and games to support his teammates. But his presence on the field late last week provided an optimistic update about his pending return, and it looks like he will be making his 2024 season debut in Week 11.
Christian Barmore is expected to play for the Patriots in Week 11
Mayo hinted at Barmore's return nearing last Thursday, claiming he would return to practice in the next day or two.
That happened on Friday, and just one day later, NFL insider Ian Rapoport revealed he was officially activated from the NFI list, formally declaring him available for Sunday's game.
The #Patriots are activating star DL Christian Barmore from the non-football illness list, sources say.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 16, 2024
Barmore is officially back, and he should play on Sunday. A long road to the field. pic.twitter.com/11KE6DV1JR
Although the Patriots have not officially stated Barmore will be on the field, with the release of receiver Tyquan Thornton opening a roster spot for Barmore to be activated, all signs point to the defensive tackle returning to the game as soon as this week.
He will immediately impact the defense in the best way possible, mainly by stopping the run, which will inevitably be a focus against the Rams' rising star, Kyren Williams. It has consistently been a weakness on the Patriots this season, breaking franchise records for the number of yards they have allowed by running backs in multiple games, making Barmore's return even more crucial for the remaining games.