And when the Patriots do get him back on the field, he can add a valuable element that will continue to help out a pass rush that generated nine sacks in Week 10 and a run defense that held the Bears to 3.6 yards per carry in Sunday’s win.

Defensive tackle Christian Barmore, who has been out since late July after being diagnosed with blood clots, is expected to return to practice Thursday, according to a team source.

Defensive tackle Christian Barmore practiced for the first time this season with his New England Patriots teammates on Thursday. Barmore was hospitalized for blood clots when New England convened for training camp in July, and he has spent the season on the reserve/non-football injury list.