Although Barmore has not been able to train for the past four months, stayed with the teamHe works with head athletic trainer Jim Whalen and his staff. He also spent time in meeting rooms with his position group, poring over the playbook.

As for when Barmore might appear in a game?

Defensive coordinator DeMarcus Covington had the same message to Barmore and the media: “Manage your expectations.”

“It’s a blessing to be on the field,” Covington said before practice on Thursday. “That’s what we need to focus on. It’s a joy to be on the field. Let’s go out there and do our best. I think we all need to manage our expectations no matter what.”

Covington said the team plans to take practice one day at a time, one week at a time. The Patriots have until Dec. 5 to move Barmore; Otherwise, he will not be able to play this season.

The Patriots will host the Rams on Sunday before traveling to face Miami in Week 12 and then return home to play Indianapolis in Week 13. They will say goodbye in the 14th week.

“There shouldn’t be any pressure on him,” Covington said. “He’s outside. This is it. I’m happy he’s there. If it’s one photo, 50 photos, whatever, it’s perfect. It’s better than not being there. “It’s better than never being able to play football again.”

If Barmore can perform close to his level in 2023, the Patriots will welcome a dynamic pass rusher.

“You talk about him being an effective runner, he just plays hard and doesn’t stop,” defensive ends coach Jerry Montgomery said. “He plays with a good quick motor, that’s what we call it. He does a great job there. And he’s pretty solid on the run. He’s an effective receiver. So it’ll be nice to have him back at some point.”

Calling nose tackle Barmore “one of a kind,” Davon Godchaux noted how his addition will increase the unit’s depth, which will keep players fresh in the rotation.

Montgomery said his plan was to evaluate Barmore’s fitness level during practice on Thursday. But like Covington, he emphasized the positive sentiment and the implications for the defense.

“This stemmed from a deal where he didn’t know if he could play again,” Montgomery said. “He’s back now.”

Nicole Yang can be reached at [email protected]. follow him @nicolecyang.