New England Patriots burgeoning star defensive tackle Christian Barmore returned to practice for the first time this season on Thursday. It was the first time Barmore has practiced since being diagnosed with blood clots and sidelined indefinitely in the summer.

Barmore’s participation means the Patriots have opened the 21-day window to activate him to the 53-man roster.

New England Patriots defensive lineman Christian Barmore, who has been out since being hospitalized with blood clots during the summer, practiced on Thursday for the first time since his diagnosis.  Barmore has been on the team's non-football illness list since the time of his hospitalization.