Christian Barmore Activated for Patriots Game

The New England Patriots have activated defensive lineman Christian Barmore from the non-football injury list, allowing him to make his season debut against the Los Angeles Rams after being sidelined due to blood clots since July. Barmore, who practiced for the first time this week, is expected to play in a limited role with around 10 to 20 snaps, as the team prioritizes his health and gradual reintegration into the lineup. Head coach Jerod Mayo emphasized the cautious approach, suggesting they would evaluate Barmore's capabilities before increasing his workload. To accommodate Barmore's return, the Patriots waived receiver Tyquan Thornton, who failed to make a significant impact since being drafted in 2022. Barmore, who signed a lucrative four-year contract extension earlier this year, is viewed as a vital player for the team's defensive future. His return comes as the Patriots look to bolster their defensive performance amid a challenging season.