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Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Anthony Barr (UCLA) - 2014 NFL Draft Pick #9 by MIN

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis: Anthony Barr

Position: Outside Linebacker
College: UCLA
Height: 6'5"
Weight: 255 lbs

Overview

Anthony Barr was one of the most intriguing prospects heading into the 2014 NFL Draft. After transitioning from a running back to an outside linebacker, he showcased remarkable athleticism and playmaking ability during his time at UCLA. Barr's combination of size, speed, and explosiveness made him a coveted prospect in a draft class rich with defensive talent.

Strengths

  • Athleticism: Barr possesses exceptional speed and agility for his size, allowing him to cover ground quickly and effectively.
  • Pass Rush Ability: He demonstrated a knack for getting to the quarterback, recording 10 sacks in his final season at UCLA.
  • Versatility: Barr can play both as a stand-up linebacker and with his hand in the dirt, making him a flexible asset for defensive schemes.
  • Instincts: He shows good awareness and instincts in reading plays, which helps him in both run defense and pass coverage.

Weaknesses

  • Technical Skills: Barr needs to refine his pass-rushing techniques, including hand placement and leveraging his body effectively against blockers.
  • Experience: Having only played two seasons at linebacker, he may require time to fully develop his skills at the professional level.
  • Consistency: While he has shown flashes of brilliance, there are concerns about his overall consistency in games.

Conclusion

Anthony Barr was viewed as a high-upside prospect with the potential to become a game-changing player in the NFL. Teams that valued athleticism and versatility were particularly interested in his ability to impact the game both as a pass rusher and in coverage. His unique skill set positioned him as one of the top linebackers available in the 2014 NFL Draft.