Players
Events
Linebacker

Anthony Barr

Draft 2014

Number

55

Birthdate

1992-03-18

Is Alive

yes

Acquisition Date

2014

Player Bio

Anthony Barr is a professional football player who has played as a linebacker in the NFL, most notably for the Minnesota Vikings. Known for his versatility, athleticism, and leadership, Barr has been a standout player on defense for many years. Here’s a detailed biography of Anthony Barr:

Early Life and College Career

Full Name: Anthony Barr
Born: March 18, 1992, in South Bend, Indiana
High School: Barr attended Notre Dame High School in Sherman Oaks, California, where he was a standout athlete in multiple sports. While he played both football and basketball, football became his main focus, and he quickly developed a reputation as a highly talented linebacker.

College:

  • Barr played college football at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where he was a key player on the UCLA Bruins football team.
  • Initially, Barr played as a running back during his first season at UCLA, but after his freshman year, he made the switch to linebacker. This move proved to be transformative, as Barr became one of the top linebackers in college football.
  • During his time at UCLA, Barr’s combination of speed, power, and athleticism helped him excel in his new position, and he quickly became one of the most disruptive players in the Pac-12 conference.
  • Awards and Accolades: Barr was a two-time All-Pac-12 selection and was named a first-team All-American in 2013. His most impressive season came in 2013 when he recorded 10 sacks and 20 tackles for loss while also showcasing his ability in pass coverage.

NFL Career

NFL Draft:

  • Anthony Barr was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the 1st round (9th overall pick) of the 2014 NFL Draft, a testament to his impressive college career and potential in the NFL.

Minnesota Vikings (2014–Present)

  • Barr quickly made an impact as a starter for the Vikings. Known for his athleticism, speed, and playmaking ability, he became a key contributor to the Vikings’ defense.
  • As a weakside linebacker, Barr excelled in both pass coverage and rushing the passer. His ability to cover tight ends, running backs, and even some wide receivers in the passing game made him a versatile and valuable asset for the Vikings’ defense.
  • In his rookie season (2014), Barr had a standout year, earning a selection to the NFL All-Rookie Team. He finished the season with 4 sacks, 1 interception, and 92 tackles, showcasing his well-rounded skill set.
  • Barr continued to develop into one of the NFL’s premier linebackers, becoming a consistent playmaker for the Vikings and a key part of their defense.
  • He was named to the Pro Bowl for the first time in 2015, after finishing the season with 3 sacks, 75 tackles, and 2 interceptions. His ability to rush the quarterback, cover the field, and create turnovers was critical for the Vikings’ defense.
  • Injury Issues: Barr faced some injury concerns throughout his career, including a shoulder injury that caused him to miss games in 2019. However, he continued to be a leader on the defense when healthy, known for his toughness and ability to play through adversity.
  • Leadership: As Barr’s career progressed, he earned a reputation as one of the leaders of the Vikings’ defense. He was frequently seen as a vocal presence on the field, directing the defense and helping to motivate his teammates.
  • In 2020, Barr suffered an injury to his torn pectoral muscle early in the season, which ended his year prematurely. Despite this setback, Barr worked hard to recover and return to the field for the 2021 season.

Contract and NFL Status

  • After his initial contract, Barr signed a 5-year, $67.5 million contract extension with the Vikings in 2019, solidifying his place as one of the highest-paid linebackers in the league.
  • His extension reflected his importance to the team and his standing as one of the top defensive players in the NFL.

Playing Style and Strengths

  • Versatility: Barr is known for his ability to do it all—rush the passer, cover in the passing game, and stop the run. His versatility allows him to play in various defensive schemes, and he can be used in a variety of roles, whether it’s as a traditional linebacker or a pass rusher.
  • Athleticism: Barr’s size (6’5″, 255 pounds) and athleticism allow him to cover a wide range of responsibilities. He has the speed to match up with faster, more agile players in the passing game while also being strong enough to take on blockers and rush the quarterback.
  • Playmaking Ability: Barr is a playmaker, capable of creating turnovers and changing the course of a game. His ability to intercept passes, sack quarterbacks, and make tackles behind the line of scrimmage is what makes him stand out as one of the best linebackers in the league.

NFL Career Stats

  • Games Played: 99
  • Games Started: 97
  • Tackles: 586
  • Sacks: 13
  • Interceptions: 6
  • Pass Deflections: 13
  • Forced Fumbles: 7
  • Pro Bowls: 1 (2015)

Personal Life and Off the Field

  • Barr is also known for his charitable work and community involvement. He has been active in various charitable events, often focusing on youth and education.
  • Barr is a passionate advocate for causes related to social justice and was outspoken during the NFL’s discussions surrounding racial inequality and player protests.

Legacy and Impact

  • Anthony Barr’s career is defined by his versatility, leadership, and ability to impact games in many ways. While injuries have slowed him at times, Barr has remained a cornerstone of the Minnesota Vikings’ defense since he was drafted.
  • His ability to contribute as a pass rusher, cover in the passing game, and make plays in critical moments has solidified his place as one of the top linebackers in the NFL.
  • Barr’s leadership, both on and off the field, has made him one of the most respected players in the Vikings’ locker room and among his peers in the league.

Summary

  • Position: Linebacker
  • NFL Team: Minnesota Vikings (2014–Present)
  • NFL Career Stats:
    • Games Played: 99
    • Games Started: 97
    • Tackles: 586
    • Sacks: 13
    • Interceptions: 6
    • Pro Bowls: 1 (2015)
  • Contract: Signed a 5-year, $67.5 million extension with the Vikings in 2019

Anthony Barr has been a key player for the Minnesota Vikings since he was drafted in 2014. Known for his versatility and athleticism, Barr has excelled as a linebacker, becoming a Pro Bowl-caliber player and a leader on defense. While injuries have occasionally slowed him, his contributions to the Vikings’ defense have been invaluable, and his career continues to be one to watch.