Jerod Mayo Issues Encouraging Update On Star Patriots Defender

Christian Barmore is inching closer to a return to the football field, according to New England Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo.

Barmore, who was hospitalized with blood clots during the first week of training camp, has not played this season. New England’s star defensive tackle remains on the reserve/non-football injury list and can return at any time.

“We’re getting close,” Mayo said during a conference call Monday morning following the team’s 20-17 overtime loss to the Tennessee Titans.

Mayo said last month Barmore was progressing well, but still needed to hit some “checkpoints” and “hurdles.” Barmore took to social media and posted a cryptic emoji hinting he could be back in the near future.

It’s unlikely Barmore will immediately return to the same form he showed during his first three seasons. But the 2021 second-round pick could help New England’s defensive front, which ranks 26th in rushing yards allowed this season.

Barmore returning to the practice field would open a 21-day window for the Patriots. By the end of that 21-day period, New England would either have to elevate Barmore to its 53-man roster or revert him back to season-ending injured reserve.