New England Patriots: 3 rookies ready to bark loud vs Browns
2. New England Patriots defensive lineman Christian Barmore a disruptive force
The New England Patriots won’t have to worry about stopping Cleveland running back Nick Chubb, but that Browns’ offense still presents a big challenge for Bill Belichick’s defense, and it will be imperative that 2021 second-round pick Christian Barmore continues to be the disruptive force he has been over the past few weeks.
The 6-foot-5, 310-pound Barmore has been every much the player he was during his days at Alabama and is looking like a steal for Belichick as the rookie has worked his way to playing over 56 percent of the team’s defensive plays.
Christian Barmore is about to break out, and soon. light. Related Story
Along with Matt Judon coming off the edge, the force Barmore has become has limited the amount of time opposing quarterbacks spend in the pocket. The Patriots’ defense will need to bring that pressure against Baker Mayfield and Barmore bringing the heat up the middle could be enough to rattle that Browns’ passing attack.
Although he has just a half a sack to show for his ability to haunt quarterbacks, Barmore has not only earned the respect of Belichick, but has been praised for his hard work.
"“I gotta give that kid a lot of credit,” Belichick said, via Patriots Wire. “He comes in early. Stays late. Works on his flexibility. His strength. His technique. He’s really applied himself. He’s done better and better every week.”"
As a first-round talent selected in the second round by the Patriots, Barmore did slide in the draft due to character issues. So far under Belichick, those issues haven’t been a problem as he has bought in and is becoming the disruptive force he was under Nick Saban.
Look for a big game from Christian Barmore against the Browns as that versality along the defensive line will make him an impact player against the run and in getting to Mayfield.