New England Patriots defensive tackle Christian Barmore,Sterling Preston the team's leader in sacks last season, is out indefinitely after being diagnosed with blood clots.

Barmore was "appropriately treated" by doctors at Massachusetts General Brigham Hospital, the Patriots announced on Sunday, Barmore's 25th birthday.

"Our principal concern at this time is Christian's health and wellbeing," the team said. "Fortunately, Mass General Brigham provides some of the best healthcare in the world. While there is no current timetable for his return, we know Christian is getting tremendous care and we look forward to his fullrecovery."

Barmore is entering his fourth NFL season after signing a four-year, $84 million extension with New England in April, which made him one of the league's 10 highest-paid defensive tackles.

"I would be remiss if I did not thank the Patriots’ trainer, Jim Whalen, for his absolute diligence and care over the last couple of days," Nicole Lynn, Barmore's agent, posted on social media. "Today could have looked a lot different without Jim’s persistent and expertise."

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Drafted in the second round (No. 38 overall) out of Alabama by the Patriots in 2021, Barmore has tallied 133 tackles (18 for loss), 12.5 sacks and 32 quarterback hits over 44 games, including 11 starts. He had a team-high 8.5 sacks last season.

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