New England Patriots defensive tackle Christian Barmore spent the first quarter of Sunday's 32-13 win over Cleveland Browns Coach Mike Vrabel confirmed the decision on the sidelines after the game.
“Yes, I had to make a decision. My job is to protect the team.” Vrabel said this at the post-match press conference.. “When there are actions that I don't think are commensurate with what we want to do here, I have to make a decision. And we move on.”
Vrabel did not specify the details of the arrest, and Barmore refused to talk to reporters after that. Despite missing the first 15 minutes, the fifth-year lineman returned in the second quarter and played 30 snaps, second only to Milton Williams among the Patriots' defensive tackles. He recorded one tackle and contributed a crucial safety late in the game, putting pressure on the Browns quarterback. Dillon Gabriel in the end zone.
The defensive tackle was the cornerstone of New England's defense during a 6-2 start to the season. Healthy after missing most of the 2024 campaign with blood clotting issues, Barmore has consistently put pressure on opposing defenders even though he has yet to record a single sack.
The benching appears to have been a short-term disciplinary measure rather than a reflection of any ongoing tension between player and coach. Vrabel emphasized that the issue has been resolved and the team is moving forward.
“We've moved on, we've resolved the issue, and I or anyone else don't have any problems going forward.” Vrabel said Monday morning on WEEI.. “I think this is how we should act. And I'm excited to start fixing today and getting these guys to move to Falcons“
The interaction between Barmore and Vrabel after the game suggested a return to normalcy. As Vrabel congratulated his players, the defenseman walked up to him and hugged him. The moment was captured and posted by the Patriots on social media.
In April 2024, Barmore signed a four-year extension with the Patriots worth up to $92 million, reflecting his value to New England's defensive front. While he has yet to make a snap this season, his consistent pressure and ability to fill the pocket remain important to the Patriots' early-season success.
