It appears the New England Patriots will be without one of their best defenders for an extended period.
Christian Barmore was diagnosed with blood clots over the weekend. And while head coach Jerod Mayo said Barmore is in “good spirits” and receiving “tremendous care,” the Patriots do not have a timetable for his return.
While no New England teammate was enthused to hear about Barmore’s medical scare (obviously), it nevertheless could have a trickle-down effect on a pair of Patriots defenders. Both defensive tackle Davon Godchaux and outside linebacker Matthew Judon are seeking contract adjustments. They expressed as much when they spoke to reporters during the first week of training camp.
Might either Godchaux and/or Judon have more negotiating power given Barmore’s likely absence?
After all, Barmore is a key component on the defensive line. He was set to enter the 2024 campaign after he recorded a career-best 8.5 sacks last season. Pro Football Focus graded Barmore as the ninth-highest-graded defensive tackle in the NFL last season. He racked up 49 total pressures, per PFF.
Without Barmore absorbing defenders and wrecking things on the defensive line, the Patriots could be in trouble. They would be in even worse trouble if Godchaux and/or Judon were to make a bigger fuss about their respective contract situations.
Judon did not participate in New England’s first fully padded practice Monday. He had a conversation on the field with head coach Jerod Mayo but walked off the field in a hat and flip-flops. Judon said last week he did not want to be traded, but felt he deserved more than what his current contract is set to pay him.
Godchaux also expressed displeasure with his contract. He publicly negotiated with Robert Kraft and company and name-dropped two NFL defenders who have deals he would like. Godchaux and his agent, Drew Rosenhaus, reportedly talked with Mayo after practice Monday.
Perhaps that’s no coincidence given the Barmore news was announced less than 24 hours ago.
