Patriots Rumors: Christian Barmore Contract Talks 'Active' Before 2024 NFL Draft

Ahead of Thursday's NFL draft, the New England Patriots are reportedly working to keep one of their current players in the fold.

Per ESPN's Mike Reiss, the Patriots have had "active extension discussions" with defensive tackle Christian Barmore and are "motivated" to get a deal done.

A second-round pick in the 2021 draft out of Alabama, Barmore is entering the final year of his rookie contract. He's set to make $2.7 million during the 2024 season.

Barmore is coming off his most productive year as a pro. He appeared in all 17 games in 2023 and recorded career highs of 64 total tackles, 8.5 sacks, six passes defended and a forced fumble. He led New England in sacks and was one of the few bright spots in an otherwise disastrous season for the Patriots.

After finishing with a 4-13 record, New England and longtime head coach Bill Belichick parted ways this offseason. Former Patriots linebacker and defensive assistant Jerod Mayo was hired as his replacement, ushering in a new era for the first time in 24 years. The team also traded 2021 first-round pick Mac Jones to the Jacksonville Jaguars, ending his up-and-down three-year tenure as New England's starting quarterback.

The Patriots hold the No. 3 pick in the 2024 draft, giving them another shot at potentially adding a franchise QB. Reiss added that the team also explored the possibility of using its second-round pick (No. 34) to jump back into the bottom half of the first round.

The next few days will be pivotal to New England's future. Retaining Barmore with a long-term deal would be a step in the right direction as the Patriots prepare to add a slew of young players through the draft.