Anthony Barr to 22?

Posted: April 24th, 2014 | Author: | Filed under: Philadelphia Eagles | 104 Comments »

I keep saying that there is no way LB Anthony Barr falls to 22, but there are some who believe he could be in for a slide like that. Why would he slide? Is he really that good of a player? Some of you are excited by him possibly falling, while others want to know if he’s a guy the Eagles should still be interested in.

I like Anthony Barr. A lot. Let’s start with the numbers.

6-5, 255
arm – 33 1/2
hand – 9 3/8
40 – 4.66
BP – 15 reps
VJ – 34.5
BJ – 119 inches
3-cone – 6.82
SS – 4.19

2012 – 21.5 TFLs (13.5 sacks)…5 pass deflections…4 FFs…1 blocked kick

2013 – 20 TFLs (10 sacks)…1 pass deflection…5 FFs…

As you can see, Barr is a gifted athlete and a productive player on the field.

Barr played RB for his first couple of seasons at UCLA. He is the son of former Eagles RB Tony Brooks. While Brooks didn’t have much of an NFL career, those are still good bloodlines to come from. I’m sure Barr wanted to be a RB like his dad. Coach Jim Mora had the wisdom to move Barr to OLB in 2012 and the rest is history.

One concern with Barr is his offensive background. Does he have the right mentality for defense? People watch his game tape and don’t see a player that tries to physically dominate on every snap. That turns off some coaches and scouts. Barr isn’t the kind of player who will just take over a game. If you watch Khalil Mack vs Ohio State, you see a guy who put his team on his back and did everything he could in that game. Barr isn’t that same kind of guy.

I do wonder if coaching and scheme isn’t partially a factor. Watch Barr play and you’ll see him play under control most of the time. Watch Dee Ford for contrast. On most snaps, Ford flies off the edge, semi-out of control. Barr picks and chooses the spots where he’s going to really fly off the edge. You wonder if some of this was by design. With the read option and mobile QBs being so prevalent these days, Barr might have been told to slow down, read plays and keep things to the inside.

When you do see Barr fly off the edge, he is really hard to block. He gave OTs fits with his speed and explosion. You would think he could do this play after play if he wanted or the coaches told him to.

One of the reasons I like Barr so much is that he can bend and turn. Many DEs/LBs have a quick first step. They can get off the ball and up the field in a hurry. Special players can get low to get under the block of the OT and then turn to the inside to get to the QB. Even though Barr is 6-5, he does this well. That translates to the NFL.

I also love the fact that he has 9 FFs in 2 years. Strip-sacks are impact plays. Getting to the QB is one thing. Getting there and knocking the ball out is ideal. That generally means the rusher is catching the QB by surprise and the ball is still exposed. This is another part of Barr’s game that bodes well for NFL success.

Barr isn’t a great run defender. He needs to learn to use his hands better. Barr tends to do things with his shoulder. That’s the natural instinct, but it has to be coached out of him. You want defenders to engage blockers with their hands. You don’t want blockers getting into the defender’s body. There  needs to be separation so that the defender can disengage from the block and get in on the play.

People who don’t like Barr will see him as a finesse player. I see a guy who needs coaching. I don’t see a player who avoids contact. Barr simply needs to work on how to take on blockers and then shed them.

Barr would be an ideal fit for the Eagles. He has the size that Chip Kelly covets. Barr would be perfect to slide in at ROLB. He has the kind of explosive athleticism that would help him to beat LTs on a consistent basis. If something happened to Connor Barwin, the Eagles could slide Barr to LOLB and play him opposite of Trent Cole. Barr is big enough and athletic enough for the left side.

The Eagles could move him around if they wanted. Barr can line up over a slot receiver. He can line up as an ILB and rush up the middle or twist to the outside. He can drop back into coverage. Barr is a gifted pass rusher, but he’s athletic enough to play in space and do a solid job on those plays when you want to mix things up to confuse the opposing offense.

You can bet that Jerry Azzinaro and Bill McGovern would have a lot of work to do. They would have Barr hitting the sled every day and working on his hand use. They would drill into him how they wanted him to take on blocks. The raw potential is there, Barr simply needs work.

I will be shocked if Barr slides to 22. I just can’t see that happening. I sure hope it does. The Eagles better run to the podium in record time if he’s there. Barr is the kind of LB who can make plays in the NFL. The Eagles need an impact rusher and Barr could be that guy.

You see impact plays vs Oregon.

Here he is against Stanford. This isn’t an ideal matchup for Barr because he’s more pass rusher than run defender, but he still impacts the game.

I would be ecstatic if the Eagles could get Barr at 22.

_


104 Comments on “Anthony Barr to 22?”

  1. 1 tball_man said at 8:29 AM on April 24th, 2014:

    No video of him destroying Barkley’s shoulder? He’s worth a move up to 15. Dynamic edge rusher where he can quasi-red shirt this year.

  2. 2 suthrneagle said at 10:53 AM on April 24th, 2014:

    After the Stanford video, the screen offers multiple choices, one of them is of Barr vs Barkely.

  3. 3 ACViking said at 8:39 AM on April 24th, 2014:

    The last time the Eagles drafted a UCLA linebacker in Rd 1 was 1979.

    Selecting 21st, Dick Vermeil chose Jerry Robinson, who was converted from wide receiver to linebacker after his freshman year.

    Robinson, who’d been projected to go as high as 11th overall, just kept sliding.

    Love to see history repeat itself.

  4. 4 Jeppe Elmelund van Ee said at 8:40 AM on April 24th, 2014:

    I dont want to be disappointed, so I have almost written him off as an opportunity at #22. How much would you be willing to trade to be able to aquire him? Our 1st and? A 3rd? A 4th? Or next years ??

    Barr is the only guy I’d move up for – outside og the top 5 guys (Clowney, Watkins, Mack, Matthews and Robinson)

  5. 5 GEAGLE said at 10:37 AM on April 24th, 2014:

    Wouldn’t trade any picks In this draft unless we talking,Clowney or Greg Robinson

  6. 6 BAR said at 10:54 AM on April 24th, 2014:

    With the needs the Birds have, why would you want to see them trade up for an OT? Just curious.

  7. 7 GEAGLE said at 11:46 AM on April 24th, 2014:

    I don’t…i just think they are the ONLY super talents worth multiple picks….I’d probably add Mack to that list

  8. 8 Jeppe Elmelund van Ee said at 12:04 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Those five players are the only “elite” prospects according to several draft-people. If one of them somehow started to slide into the teens, then I’d make a move.
    I wouldn’t trade into the top 5 for anyone just FYI.

  9. 9 UWotM8 said at 2:31 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    I would absolutely give up a 3rd if it allowed us to draft Anthony Barr. He has a ton of potential and has more upside as a pass rusher than Khalil Mack, imo. He just needs a little seasoning. Barr reminds me of DeMarcus Ware when he was coming out of college and he has the potential to be a poor man’s version of the former Cowboys’ star OLB.

    I think that giving up a 3rd rd pick is justifiable if it means drafting Ware-lite.

  10. 10 Stanimal said at 9:38 AM on April 24th, 2014:

    In the Oregon game it did seem like Barr’s primary responsibility on a lot of plays was to keep containment instead of rushing the passer. UCLA kept sending three man rushes with Barr constantly being left on an island by himself. He seemed to do a good job setting the edge on run plays and kept the RBs from getting to the outside. But it was hard not to appreciate Zumwalt in that tape as well even though Mariota made him look slow at points.

  11. 11 GEAGLE said at 10:37 AM on April 24th, 2014:

    No BRAINER….not even sure what’s there to discuss,,.if he is there at 22 you thank god and turn the card in, if he isn’t you trade back…

  12. 12 Ark87 said at 10:41 AM on April 24th, 2014:

    I think the question is whether there is a point to which he could slide where we would begin trying to trade up. If he’s there at 19, would we be making serious phone calls?

  13. 13 GEAGLE said at 11:44 AM on April 24th, 2014:

    Yeah sure, if you are talking Only moving two spots their is a discussion to be had…but trading up to like 17 or less, IMO is just not going to happen when we only have 6 picks…

    Put it to you this way, much rather spend 1 pick on Attauchp or Marcus, than spending two or 3 picks to get Barr…
    ….
    Barr IMO is not more valuable then say adding Attaucho and Cody Lattimore….the opportunity cost of the picks we have to give up In this draft is just too high…

    Even if we only have to give up a 4th, would you rather have Barr, or Marcus Smith and Christian Jones?
    ..

  14. 14 CSA said at 12:18 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    We are a very young team right now. Sure we would all love to have a ton of picks but how many rookies are really gonna make this team? I’m guessing the answer is 5 or so. IF Barr is the answer (and I am not sold on that) then dealing a 4th or 5th to move up is not a terrible thing even in a deep draft.

    FYI, I think we might be saying the same thing but in different ways.

  15. 15 GEAGLE said at 12:35 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    I,adore the kid, probably number 1 on my wish list…guess my admiration for Attauchu and Marcus makes it easier to not go get him….I doubt I would be any happier to see us come away with Barr, than Attauchu or Marcus…I’ll be,dancing as long as one of those 3 are eagles….even if you overdraft Attaucho or Marcus at 22, we could get KVN in round 2 and STILL have our 3rd to get a Martevis Bryant or Moncrief type of WR

  16. 16 GEAGLE said at 12:37 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    I’d rather come away from the first 3 rounds with:
    Attaucho
    Allen Robinson
    Christian Jones

    Instead of
    Barr
    A-Rob
    ..
    ????

    Guess it all depends on how you view Attauchp or Marcus…I would be just as happy to get them as I would with Barr….none are finished products, all need coaching

  17. 17 Tom W said at 10:42 AM on April 24th, 2014:

    Would you trade 22 and our 3d for Dolphins 19 and 4th to move up?

  18. 18 GEAGLE said at 11:41 AM on April 24th, 2014:

    No…I would do it for our 4th for their 5th….too much difference IMO between 3rd and 4th round prospects in this draft….3rd round pick in this draft should get a a top round 2 talent in a lot of drafts…basically I think you can get an Ertz type prospect in the 3rd this year

  19. 19 Tom W said at 10:39 AM on April 24th, 2014:

    For draft day, not a lot of teams have olb rush needs so if Barr gets past the Titans and Horton at 11, cards at 20, pack at 21, we would be smooth sailing. A trade up to 19 wouldn’t be out of the question to get him before the Cards do bc John Abraham is 36.

    The wildcard is the stupid cowboys in between there, who may make the same mistake that the dolphins did and think they can make Barr a d end like the Fins thought they could do w Dion Jordan. such a waste.

    As a consolation prize, give me the poor man’s Barr (Marcus Smith) at 54 or my man crush Jeremiah Attouchi (sp).

  20. 20 GEAGLE said at 12:16 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Been,drooling over Barr for a long time..lbut if we come away with Marcus or Attaucho. I won’t be any less happy than I’d be if we got Barr….those kids can both play…Marcus gives u all the versatility Barr does if not more, and Attaucho already turns speed to power better than Barr…..any one of those 3 would make me thrilled….rather overdraft Marcus or Attaucho at 22, then spend multiple picks going to get Barr

  21. 21 CSA said at 10:48 AM on April 24th, 2014:

    I didn’t like seeing how easily teams blocked him but I trust Tommy’s eyes more than my own.

    I don’t think there’s anyway he gets past the Cards or the Packers. If he is the guy that we want you almost have to trade up to 19.

    My absolute dream day would be the Cowboys picking Manziel and Barr falling to us. Neither of those is likely but a guy can dream…

  22. 22 GEAGLE said at 12:08 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Don’t think he is the lock to go to Cardinals that people act like he is…I’m expecting Bruce ARYIANS to want to draft a QB high in this draft…think Carr will be at the top of their wish list…Zona also needs CBs and safety pretty bad, and 20 is a great spot for a corners across from Peterson…

    Packers need a brand new defense so they worry me

  23. 23 RobNE said at 2:13 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    why would anyone put any stock in a backup Pats QB? that hasn’t worked out so well in the past. And if you are Belicheat, why would you use a high pick on a QB when his lifespan as a coach is 99% certain tied to Brady. He should use his short window and get what he needs to win a SB. I just don’t see how drafting a QB high is relevant at all to Belicheat. He isn’t the coach 6 years from now.

  24. 24 GEAGLE said at 7:30 AM on April 25th, 2014:

    You do realize Bill Obrien was Mallets QB coach before PSU? NFL GMs think of mallet as one of the top 32 QBs,..QBs get injured…team in Super Bowl or bust mode need capable insurance…bet they would love to keep mallet!but he will leve as a Free agent…

  25. 25 Phyxius said at 10:48 AM on April 24th, 2014:

    We should trade down. In my opinion there’s no player that’ll be worth a 22, unless a certain player falls, but I don’t see that happening at all.

  26. 26 Baloophi said at 11:22 AM on April 24th, 2014:

    “Coach Jim Mora had the wisdom…”

    There’s a sentence you don’t see everyday…

  27. 27 RobNE said at 2:15 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    yes I was like, wait is that the same Jim Mora? The Phila Stars coach?!?

  28. 28 laeagle said at 6:36 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    It’s actually the Stars coach’s son.

  29. 29 Chippah said at 11:55 AM on April 24th, 2014:

    If Barr slipped to 22 … ugh I’d love it. Then Christian Jones in the 2nd or 3rd. Our LB corps would get a huge influx of youth and talent.

  30. 30 Ramsay said at 12:56 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    I would be ecstatic if we got c jones. Played football with him in high school, dudes a beast. Seeing him in midnight green would be cool

  31. 31 GEAGLE said at 12:57 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Would his intelligence and character shine when Chip interviews him? Will his personality and Character fit our mold?

  32. 32 Ramsay said at 1:01 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    I think so. In h.s he was strictly focused on football. Was the kind of guy that would get along with everyone, very personable. I can’t vouch for him as much now.. But if he is anything like he was then I’m sure chip will like him.

  33. 33 GEAGLE said at 1:04 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Thanks for the intel…love the kid if we can get Van Noy

  34. 34 Chippah said at 1:27 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Kempski did a great break down of his talent a while ago. Good to know his head’s in the right place too. I’d be ecstatic if we could get him to develop behind DeMeco for a year. Teach him the little things, work on his anticipation. He and Kendricks would be a hell of a pair of athletes at the center of the D.

  35. 35 Insomniac said at 9:38 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    It was beautiful watching him go stride for stride in man coverage on TEs.

  36. 36 GEAGLE said at 12:06 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Two more weeks? Screw u Goodell

  37. 37 Iskar36 said at 12:27 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Just curious, what was the logic of moving the NFL draft back 2 weeks? I hate waiting the extra two weeks, but I am curious if there was a good reason from the NFL’s perspective of moving it back. Was it a booking issue with Radio City Music Hall? Was it something they wanted to try to see if it would increase viewers? Were owners/GMs looking to add two more weeks of scouting?

    I’m just hoping whatever the reasoning was isn’t something that would make it difficult to go back to the older schedule.

  38. 38 GEAGLE said at 12:30 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Heard it was the booking at radio city music hall..not sure if true…..and NFL always trying to find better ways to keep fans engaged 365 days a year, instead of the quiet offseasons of the old days where football was just seasonal…guess it helps keep our attention an extra two weeks…not sure…knowing NFL, Money factors into this somehow

  39. 39 Iskar36 said at 12:33 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    If that’s the case, then hopefully they still have incentive (and availability) to switch back next year.

  40. 40 GEAGLE said at 12:39 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    I sure hope so man…this is unbearable

  41. 41 Anders said at 12:48 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    If the NFL wanted music hall, they could book now and for the next 100 years on the weekend they want.

    The NFL wanted to move the draft to May

  42. 42 lonfident said at 2:25 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Yes, I heard since April already had the schedule release and May didn’t have anything important NFL related they moved it. Not that it makes any sense.

  43. 43 Maggie said at 3:45 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    According to at least one of the teams who played deep into the playoffs, they think it’s great. They get the extra time to prepare. second, what is everyone talking an texting and tweeting about??? THE DRAFT! Anticipation sells advertising.

  44. 44 Ben Hert said at 4:54 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Move it to Chicago IMO, but I’m biased. Centrally located makes it a win/win for all. Be pretty sweet to have the draft right on the lake in McCormick Place.

  45. 45 mksp said at 2:59 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    $$$$$

    Two more weeks for NFL Network to talk about the draft.

  46. 46 laeagle said at 6:40 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    I heard it was part of their plan to have something big every month of the offseason. Feb=Combine, mar=Free Agency, Apr=schedule (?!?!?), May=draft.

    It helps to think of it as simply a tighter grip around the neck of the golden goose.

  47. 47 mtn_green said at 6:25 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    NFL didn’t want to lose the spotlight during the nba playoffs and nhl playoffs. The draft is now smack in the middle so the two weeks speculation and two weeks of discussion about how draft went steal eyeballs from NHL and nba.

  48. 48 Glenn said at 12:09 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Nice article. I am not quite as sold on Barr, because I do think that he will have a difficult time shedding blockers, and being solid against the run, at the next level. He is too much of a prospect for me to be picked at 22. At 22, I would rather see the Eagles take Cooks, Lee, or Beckham, over Barr. With development and coaching, there is a good chance that Barr will reward the team that picks him, but there is downside as well.

  49. 49 Maggie said at 3:42 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Isn’t he seen as a pass rusher? Isn’t the NFL a passing league? Perhaps more important initially and he seems very coachable.

  50. 50 Glenn said at 7:21 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Yes he is seen a pass rusher, and that is the most desirable trait of an OLB. But, I want someone a little more well rounded if I pick him at 22. Someone who is more physical, sheds blocks well, and a good tackler. But, it wouldn’t be a bad pick at 22. Especially if all the good WR’s are taken.

  51. 51 Sean Stott said at 3:55 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Why would you take stone-hands Lee? Why would you take Cooks when we could have just kept Desean? Makes no sense.

  52. 52 Glenn said at 7:17 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Cooks has the speed and quickness of DeSean. But he plays bigger, and does not disappear in the red zone. He is already a more precise route runner, which is very important in Kelly’s system. He is a more willing blocker. And he is not a diva, with gang ties, due to make 10.5 million.

  53. 53 D3FB said at 8:20 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    He’s also 20lbs bigger than DJax.

  54. 54 Insomniac said at 9:39 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Because he’s more Steve Smith than Djax?

  55. 55 Sean Stott said at 12:34 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Wow, those are tiny hands for someone so tall.

  56. 56 GEAGLE said at 12:39 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    So he struggles to masterbate..I can overlook that, actually it may make him play more angry and violent……still a top talent 🙂
    ..
    They say T-Rex was so destructive because his arms were to short to…you know lol….so he was always pissed off and destructive…hopefully this same effect transcends Barr to defensive greatness

  57. 57 Amber Jack said at 4:33 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    True midgets (or whatever the politically correct term is these days)can’t masturbate or wipe their own ass. No.wonder they always seem angry.

  58. 58 Kristopher Cebula said at 12:43 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    I think that playing a year splitting time with Trent Cole would do a lot of good for Barr as well. Cole is a savvy veteran who plays with a relentless motor. If there is a player that can teach Barr what it’s like to play Defense and also stress how to use good technique, it’s cole

  59. 59 GEAGLE said at 12:45 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Hoping Ebron falls

  60. 60 ACViking said at 4:08 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Interesting that Ebron’s not been to NovaCare for an interview.

    Or not.

    Eagles had Ted Williams at his Pro Day — along with 30 other NFL teams’ coaches.

  61. 61 Insomniac said at 9:35 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    It’s either your typical smokescreen or his mental lapses in game and rumored diva-like-attitude is what is scaring some people away.

  62. 62 oreofestar said at 3:04 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    I just…can’t contain myself anymore I want Mike and this reeks 2011 and Julio he’s our Julio I need Julio!!!!

  63. 63 barneygoogle said at 3:21 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Does anyone have even one quote or comment from Chip Kelly on any player in this draft? He’s really not giving us anything. I wonder if we wind up totally surprised on draft day?

  64. 64 Ben Hert said at 4:55 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    I can’t really think of any coaches or GM’s that talk about potential players.

  65. 65 anon said at 5:56 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Yeah, but some will pose for photos in front of their draft board.

  66. 66 barneygoogle said at 8:32 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    profootballtalk.com seems to have a lot of team comments. But never anything from Kelly or Roseman.

  67. 67 Alistair Middlemiss said at 3:22 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Question Tommy, How much would you be comfortable for the eagles to give up to get Barr. If they jumped to 18 and give up their 4th is that a deal you make? Would you spend your 3 to get up to 13th with the rams? I am not sure how much value i would be happy to give up

  68. 68 ACViking said at 4:06 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Re: UCLA’s Quarter System

    Last year, 2nd Rd pick Zach Ertz from Stanford missed out on a bunch of OTAs — and, according to him, delayed his progress — because of Stanford’s quarter-system.

    The NFL bars drafted/rookie FA players from participating in organized team activities (OTAs) until their college holds graduation.
    _______________

    The Birds’ post-draft OTAs schedule is:

    * OTA Offseason Workouts on May 27-29, June 2-3, June 5, and June 9-12.

    * Mandatory Minicamp: June 17-19
    _______________

    UCLA — like Stanford — also uses the quarter system.

    That’ll impact Barr if he lands here. A lot.

    At UCLA, the spring-quarter ends on JUNE 13th.

    UCLA’s commencement is JUNE 13-15.
    http://www.registrar.ucla.edu/calendar/cals14.htm

    That means, if the Eagles land Barr, he’ll miss EVERY one of the 10 OTAs.

    He’ll come out to NovaCare on 6/17 with just his playbook in his hands.
    ______________

    That’d be disappointing. Ah-gain.

    _______________

  69. 69 Maggie said at 8:57 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    If he’s not being projected as a starter just yet, does it matter that much?

  70. 70 ACViking said at 9:05 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Slows down his 1st-season development.

    And for a guy needing to up-grade his technique — and with rookie contracts only lasting 4 years — much of 1st season could be lost . . . situational use only.
    ____________

    Dion Jordan had the same issue with the Dolphins.

    Jimmy Kempski shows how DJ was an impactful pass rusher. But that’s it. Not a 3-down player.
    ____________

    You’re talking about your FIRST ROUND PICK.

    A 1st Rd pick, non-QB, should be on the field his rookie season.

    ‘specially if you’re spending to move UP.
    ____________

    None of this is Barr’s fault.

    But Pac-12 players (except Cal-Berkley, not on 1/4 sys) are seriously hurt by this rule. And the teams that draft them.

  71. 71 phillychuck said at 4:26 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    After watching the Oregon and Stanford tapes Barr doesn’t look much better than Marcus Smith. Would not move up.

  72. 72 Anders said at 4:35 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    The huge TFL he had against Stanford is something very few players even at the NFL can make.

  73. 73 phillychuck said at 4:40 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    He makes a few plays in both games, but play-in, play-out he gets blocked. Runners run right by him and he can’t get his arms free to even slow them down. And his pass-rush moves aren’t consistently effective, even against single-teams. Not worth a high first-round pick IMHO.

  74. 74 Anders said at 4:45 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    His biggest problem is his technique due to him not using his hands.

    He has played LB for 2 years and before that he was a RB, so his natural instinct is to lead with his shoulder.

    For a guy who cant get off blocks and struggle against tackles, he sure as hell made a lot of plays anyway.

    When picking a guy like Barr, you also project what he will be in 2 years.

    There was no way on how he played alone that Lane Johnson should have been the 4th overall pick (or Ziggy Ansah should be 8th and lead rookies in sacks), but his athletisme and skill set meant that his projection in terms of NFL ability was so great that he was worth it.

  75. 75 D3FB said at 5:03 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    I’ve been pounding the table for Smith since December and like him enough to take at 22. That being said Barr is a far better rusher than Smith.

  76. 76 A_T_G said at 4:34 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    I posted this the other day, but just before a new thread came up. Since we are still talking about 22…

    Let me start by saying I watch very little college football and my opinion of prospects comes mostly from what I read here and elsewhere. Listening to the podcast (woohoo!) and reading your and many respected opinions, Benjamin is a disappointment waiting to be drafted. His agility and hands make many afraid that his size will make us overlook these deficiencies and the deficiencies will make him unsuccessful as a WR.

    If Benjamin was a TE, would opinions be different? Would he be viewed as an incredibly fast TE with big play potential, questionable blocking ability, and a weapon for offensive minds? I ask because Kelly seems enamored with TEs, because NE showed the potency of two dangerous TEs, and because I wonder if that is how we are viewing him.

  77. 77 Anders said at 4:40 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Problem is Benjamin is not even an atheltic TE

    http://www.philly.com/philly/blogs/sports/eagles/Eagles-notes-Analyzing-the-Birds-interest-in-FSU-WR-Kelvin-Benjamin-updated-Eagles-interest-list.html

    Look at the list who compares him to Ertz who is on the bad end in terms of pure athleticism for a TE

  78. 78 A_T_G said at 4:56 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Yeah, ok. A little longer, a little faster, not as agile. Hopefully we don’t find ourselves looking for the silver lining in a few weeks.

  79. 79 Maggie said at 8:54 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Jeremiah mocked him to the Eagles today on NFL Network! I usually like Jeremiah, but…

  80. 80 dislikedisqus said at 10:10 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    I made this point on Birds 24/7 a few days ago. Benjamin is a blend of Ertz and Jermichael Finley in his measurables. In other words, a high ceiling pass catching TE. project his highest and best use wd be as a Celek replacement not a WR.

  81. 81 Mitchell said at 4:47 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Tommy, I’m starting to get the feeling you would really like Barr at 22.

  82. 82 Mitchell said at 5:10 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Comparing Barr and Jordan based solely on combine numbers:

    Barr Jordan
    6-5, 255 6-6, 248
    arm – 33 1/2 arm-33 7/8
    hand – 9 3/8 hand-10″
    40 – 4.66 40- 4.60
    BP – 15 reps BP- not performed
    VJ – 34.5 VJ-32.5
    BJ – 119 inches BJ-122
    3-cone – 6.82 3 cone-7.02
    SS – 4.19 SS-4.35

    Seems as though Barr is a bit more agile than Jordan with his 3-cone and SS. Barr also may have a bit more explosion with his vert. Would also like to see what the 10 yard split is for each other their 40’s.

  83. 83 D3FB said at 6:00 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Barr, Jordan, Mack all had 1.56 splits. Mingo, Smith, had a 1.57

    Attachou ran a 1.55 (but at his pro day)

  84. 84 Anders said at 5:19 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    People here know how much I love ODB, but another favorite of mine is Cody Latimer

    He is 6-2 215, so he is a bigger WR.

    He runs a 4.4 at that size while also having a 39 inch vertical. He is also a guy who actually plays big.

    Watch this TD catch against MSU’s Dennard who is one of the most physical CBs in this draft

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mu-UFQCGah4#t=97

  85. 85 mtn_green said at 5:41 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Latimer blocked out Dennard on the next play to allow a bubble screen to score. Wow the wr class is deep.

  86. 86 Anders said at 3:47 AM on April 25th, 2014:

    Yep super impressive consider how physical Dennard is. Think about him blocking a cb like DRC

  87. 87 Mitchell said at 6:26 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    I’ve come around on him. I like him as well, just no as much as Beckham.

  88. 88 mksp said at 7:14 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Can’t believe there’s talk of him going in the 1st now. Insane.

    Would be a candidate late in the 1st round if we trade back I think. Prefer Cooks & ODB to him still.

  89. 89 Insomniac said at 9:26 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    What took you so long to show that you’re on the Latimer train?

  90. 90 Anders said at 3:45 AM on April 25th, 2014:

    Didn’t get around to really watch him before now

  91. 91 GermanEagle said at 5:40 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Tommy ,

    Barr or Jordan at #22 for the Eagles?

  92. 92 anon said at 5:49 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    maybe we pick who dolphins want and trade after june 1.

  93. 93 SteveH said at 5:56 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    “While Brooks didn’t have much of an NFL career, those are still good bloodlines to come from.”

    Is there another Barr brother? We want to make sure we get the right one…

  94. 94 Maggie said at 8:52 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    “Barr’s father, Tony Brooks, and uncles, Reggie Brooks and Cedric Figaro all played in the NFL. All of them also played at Notre Dame.” from the dreaded wikipedia.

  95. 95 Scott J said at 6:02 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    We need to start some bad rumors about Barr so teams will think twice about drafting him. Then he’ll fall right to us at 22.

  96. 96 D3FB said at 6:07 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Another good breadown of Barr

    http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2014/4/4/5555062/2014-nfl-draft-anthony-barr-scouting-report

  97. 97 Daz said at 6:30 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Hey all, sorry to hijack a draft discussion! After some advice – I’m an Aussie who’ll be in Philly for the home game versus Wash. It’ll be my first live football game! Stoked! So – pathetic newbie questions…
    1. Where’s the best seats in the stadium to watch the game? Sideline/endzone? Up in the stands or down towards the ground?
    2. What’s (very roughly) reasonable to pay for a ticket?
    3. Is that NFL ticket exchange website the best way to secure some tickets?
    4. How would I go about joining in the tailgating experience? We don’t have that here for our football! Do you need an invite from someone or do you just rock up and enjoy the atmosphere?
    Sorry for NFI questions, I come to Tommy’s website for all my other Eagles info, thought you may be able to help with this too! Ridiculously excited that I’ll get to see them play live!

    Cheers,

    Daz

  98. 98 SuPaFrO said at 8:00 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Did any one else eyyyyy to read this in n Aussie accent after he mentioned it? ? Haha

  99. 99 ACViking said at 8:59 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    If you like to watch football from a higher vantage point to get sort of a “coach’s film” view of the game . . . try to find tickets between the suite levels — I think its the “C” level, C-20 to C 23, or C1-2, C39-40 — or the top level in sections 224-226 or 201-202 or 240.

    All of these are between the 35 yard lines, roughly.

    Here’s a link to some images of the stadium so you know what I’m referring to. (Apologies if you do already.)

    https://www.google.com/search?q=lincoln+financial+field&client=firefox-a&hs=sOB&hl=en&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&channel=s&tbm=isch&imgil=T0JATsZvompqCM%253A%253Bhttps%253A%252F%252Fencrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com%252Fimages%253Fq%253Dtbn%253AANd9GcR7tV7m1y496OgMUwjw-ktZOHRaZeX8ttIxfpbBnDJWLXIVuvbb%253B521%253B521%253BVXzrwwjVKB-fdM%253Bhttp%25253A%25252F%25252Fwww.gotickets.com%25252Fvenues%25252Fpa%25252Flincoln_financial_field.php&source=iu&usg=__7J39R0nEbHxXFcMmB85e2j1qS5Q%3D&sa=X&ei=g7FZU8STNsiI8gG4ioDgCA&sqi=2&ved=0CE8Q9QEwBQ&biw=1056&bih=472&dpr=1.82#facrc=_&imgdii=T0JATsZvompqCM%3A%3BVgIv7IOIaT2SWM%3BT0JATsZvompqCM%3A&imgrc=T0JATsZvompqCM%253A%3BVXzrwwjVKB-fdM%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.gotickets.com%252Fcached%252F_images%252Fmaintainwidth%252F521x500%252F3289d6466a2cd8483042263f956c9f7d%252Fphiladelphia-eagles-lincoln-financial-field-1648.gif%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.gotickets.com%252Fvenues%252Fpa%252Flincoln_financial_field.php%3B521%3B521

  100. 100 A Roy said at 10:07 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    You’re aware, of course, that Sav Rocca has been gone from Philadelphia for yonks, mate?

  101. 101 Daz said at 7:26 AM on April 25th, 2014:

    I was a Birds fan long before big Sav joined the cause. Bonus that he did as an Aussie to cheer for, but I found it hard to support him given he played for my team’s biggest rival back here in Aussie rules!

    Seriously though, this is a once in a life-time trip for me. Anyone gunna help a fellow Eagles fan out with some advice? (And an invite to a tailgating drink or seven?)

  102. 102 GEAGLE said at 8:38 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Eagles had a visit with Telvin Smith…could be awesome Nickle subpackage guy and ST player, but I struggle to see how he fits into our base…I would assume we can’t rule out a guy like shazler now

  103. 103 Insomniac said at 9:32 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    Two more weeks…

  104. 104 dislikedisqus said at 10:07 PM on April 24th, 2014:

    I watched the Oregon film. I agree he is unusually tall and fast. But his successes only came from speed rushing. Otherwise he was pretty ineffective. At least twice he ran upfield so fast he ran himself out of position and the RB went for big gains. On most plays he was singled up and on most of them, if the T made contact, that sufficed to neutralize Barr. Not seeing as much as I expected.