At best, Barmore, 25 years old, has been defense in the game, recording 8.5 sacks and 64 tackles (of which 13 for losses) in 2023.
Patriots knew that the Alabama product was worthy of investment and signed it for four years, $ 84 million an extension to secure their key defense for years to come.
Then came the blood clots.
With medical clearance and no issues at this stage, Barmore plans to recover where he quit in 2023 and builds on his first year in significant production.
Mike Vrabel, head coach of new Patriots, has already identified the potential in defense.
“What I’ve seen is a player who is excited and it’s a coach. Very coach,” said Vrabbel. “He has some versatility. He has hurried in. He is ranked outside. He has worked a lot. You have seen him chase and play with great effort on the field.
Barmore has every reason to be engaged. Just six months ago, his football future was in doubt.
Now he intends to make sure no one doubts him again.