Before the regular season began, the Patriots were hit with the devastating news that starting defensive tackle Christian Barmore would be out indefinitely due to a health issue. It was a huge loss to the defensive line, especially since the team eventually traded Matthew Judon and lost captain Ja'Whaun Bentley to injury in Week 2.
The defensive line's production in their absences has been a roller coaster through ten games this season, with the coaching staff experimenting with who is on the field, when, and who is the most productive.
Although they've come a long way since the start of the season, the Patriots have tried to improve their performance by bringing in several free agents to see how they could potentially positively impact their efforts. The latest signing we are yet to see on game day is seasoned veteran defensive end Yannick Ngakoue, who was most recently with the Ravens.
He will be an exciting addition to the team, but the latest update regarding Barmore might be the best news of the week.
Jerod Mayo's promising update on Christian Barmore is exactly what the Patriots need right now
While speaking to the media on Wednesday morning, Mayo provided the latest update on Barmore, who has been trending in the right direction recently.
According to the head coach, there is a chance Barmore will return to practice this week or next, a sign he could make his return to the field much sooner than anticipated.
Jerod Mayo: There is a chance Christian Barmore could practice this week, or next week.
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) November 13, 2024
Considering there was a strong belief that we wouldn't see Barmore play this season at all, it's quite an update that could really change the state of the defense for the rest of the season. They might not be a playoff-contending team, but the better defense against the run and the improved pass rush with Barmore on the field will be a welcomed improvement.