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.

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.

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