Grades For the First Round of the 2014 NFL Draft
Aug 16, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings linebacker Anthony Barr (55) tackles Arizona Cardinals quarterback Drew Stanton (5) for a fumble in the second quarter at TCF Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports
B. <p>After being picked No. 9 overall by the Minnesota Vikings, outside linebacker Anthony Barr showed promise. Like Von Miller before him, he’s a 4-3 OLB that moves to DE in passing situations. And before getting hurt, Barr’s versatility enabled him to handle the role with 70 tackles and four sacks in the 12 games he played.</p> <p>He was no Mack but he did well in setting the edge was able to get to the quarterback. He was even good in pass coverage, further showing how athletic and versatile he is. But like a lot of rookies in the NFL, Barr had a tragic flaw that kept him from being great.</p><div class=. OLB. Minnesota Vikings. ANTHONY BARR
Barr was athletic and versatile but he didn’t tackle well and that’s what linebackers need to do well. In 2014, he had more missed tackles than any 4-3 outside linebackers in the NFL with 22. He’s clearly a guy that can make the big play for you but needs to work at making the small one.
" >
B
After being picked No. 9 overall by the Minnesota Vikings, outside linebacker Anthony Barr showed promise. Like Von Miller before him, he’s a 4-3 OLB that moves to DE in passing situations. And before getting hurt, Barr’s versatility enabled him to handle the role with 70 tackles and four sacks in the 12 games he played.
He was no Mack but he did well in setting the edge was able to get to the quarterback. He was even good in pass coverage, further showing how athletic and versatile he is. But like a lot of rookies in the NFL, Barr had a tragic flaw that kept him from being great.
Barr was athletic and versatile but he didn’t tackle well and that’s what linebackers need to do well. In 2014, he had more missed tackles than any 4-3 outside linebackers in the NFL with 22. He’s clearly a guy that can make the big play for you but needs to work at making the small one.
Next: Detroit Lions