Sports. Honestly. Since 2011

2014 NFL Draft: Anthony Barr Scouting Report

Anthony Barr

UCLA, RLB/RDE
Height: 6.5
Weight: 252
40yd: 4.66
Age: 22

Stats

Year

G

Tak

TFL

Sak

PBU

INT

2010

12

2011

12

2012

14

82

21

13

5

0

2013

13

66

20

10

1

0

Athleticism: A+

A rare athlete for a man his size. Is an extremely efficient mover who can sidestep blocks with ease. Lateral movement is effortless. Changes directions like a Miele vacuum. Has elite burst that is reminiscent of Von Miller at Texas A&M. Range in backside pursuit is very good. Was not asked to drop into coverage very often, but has the tools to eventually develop into a quality cover linebacker.

Pass Rushing: A-

Explodes off the line of scrimmage and immediately puts tackles on their heels. Can get a bit jumpy at times, but rarely gets called for jumping offsides. Fluid and flexible, and can the run arc incredibly well. Accelerates and closes on QBs in a flash. Is overly reliant on the outside rush at this point and has yet to develop much power or nuance into his pass rush. Is too easily locked up on blocks when his initial plan is foiled. Is naturally strong but has yet to convert that into power when taking on blocks. Still has room to improve.

Run Stopping: B

Not as gifted in this area as he is rushing the passer, but is still above average. Excellent at shooting gaps and can get into the backfield and wreak havoc. Was asked to occupy the entire left side of the line at UCLA quite a bit and would benefit playing on the edge with help in a 34. Does not get blown off the ball, but gets handled too easily by blockers, and doesn’t have much of answer for double-teams.

Technique: C+

Has a very long frame that is conducive to tackling. Does a surprisingly good job at wrapping up in space and rarely lets an opportunity get by him. Can get turned around at times, but is effective when pointed in the right direction. Hits with authority and is a turnover machine. Inexperienced playing on the defensive side of the ball and could use plenty of work in his technique, but is naturally gifted.

Intangibles: C+

Plays with a strong motor, but effort seems to dip slightly when asked to do something other than rush the passer, but otherwise is relentless. Only played linebacker for two years and is still a raw talent at this point. Instincts are below average and gets caught guessing far too much. Was still able to produce after his breakout season.

Red Flags: Raw Talent

Bottom Line: Barr was one of the most coveted prospects in this year’s class going into the season, and not much has changed at this point. Riding a strong pro day, Barr is primed to be one of this first pass rushers selected in May, and is the most pure rush linebacker in this class. Barr offers a lot of versatility to play within any defense and could line up as a goal line TE a la Mike Vrabel or J.J. Watt.

Comparison: Von Miller

Grade: 9.7 (Top 5 Talent)

Click Here to Read All the Draft Articles

Thank you for reading. Please take a moment to follow me on Twitter – @LWOS_Sibo.  Support LWOS by following us on Twitter  –@LastWordOnSport – and “liking” our Facebook page.

Interested in writing for LWOS?  We are looking for enthusiastic, talented writers to join our Football writing team.  Visit our “Write for Us” page for very easy details in how you can get started today!

Football fans…check out our two partnered NFL podcasts – Thursday Night Tailgate Radio and Overtime Ireland.  Both shows bring you interesting commentary, critical analysis and fantastic guests including former and current NFL players, coaches and personalities.

Main Photo:

Share:

More Posts

Send Us A Message