Latest injury update on New England Patriots DT Christian Barmore sets realistic expectations for 2025 NFL season and beyond

FOXBOROUGH, Mass - Is Christian Barmore back? 

The New England Patriots star defensive tackle missed most of the 2024 season after being hospitalized with blood clots in July. He was sidelined for all of the preseason along with the first 10 games of the regular season. He then returned for four games, but experienced recurring symptoms and was sidelined once again. 

However, as they prepare for the 2025 season, Barmore has been a regular throughout the voluntary offseason program, with the Patriots posting numerous photos of him working out. 

And on Thursday, he spoke with reporters, giving an update on his status heading into this new season. 

Specifically, he specified that he's been cleared for football activity. 

And with that, he plans to be ready to go by Week 1. 

"Really just enjoying the game I love again. Not worrying about what was holding me back last year," Barmore said. "Feeling good. More confidence in myself with my breathing."

And with that, he praised new head coach Mike Vrabel, who has been very supportive. 

"Every time I talk to him, he's just there for me... Just a guy that I really respect," Barmore said. "He picked me up and I really respect that."

Barmore was given a four-year contract extension with the Patriots worth up to $92 million after the 2023 season, where he had his career-best year, totaling 8.5 sacks, 64 tackles, and 13 tackles for loss. 

"The biggest challenge has been battling with myself," Barmore said adding that he's had to work a lot harder because he doesn't want to lose everything he's worked so hard for. "I was doing every I can to come back last year."

And with that, he made it clear he has no fear of having a reoccurrence of blood clots, again.

His presence combined with this update is certainly very good news as the 2025 season draws closer.