6’4” – 245 lbs. – 4.65e

STATISTICAL PROFILE:

2010: 6 – 29 – 0 rushing (4.8), 9 – 66 – 0 receiving (7.3) (RB)
2011: 9 – 25 – 1 rushing (2.8), 3 – 16 – 1 receiving (5.3) (RB)
2012: 82 – 21.0 – 13.0, 4 QBH, 4 FF, 5 PD, 1 BK (OB)

OVERVIEW:

Came to school as a hybrid fullback/wildcat quarterback, contributing in a reserve role as a freshman with four starts, then reprised his role as a sophomore, starting seven games. Transitioned to outside linebacker as a junior in 2012, being named a first-team All-Pac-12 selection in 2012 after starting all fourteen games.

STRENGTHS:

– Will graduate with two highly productive years in a major conference.
– Tall with long arms and the frame to gain additional bulk in the pros.
– Has gained some weight since arriving at UCLA weighing 228 pounds.
– Could realistically play outside linebacker in either defensive front.
– Demonstrates a nice burst off the line of scrimmage, bends back well.
– Plays with a high motor in all phases: rushing, covering, run defense.
– Looks comfortable dropping into coverage, has the height to cover TEs.
– Already shows surprising refinement given lack of defensive experience.
– Still possesses considerable upside after transitioning to defense in ’11.

WEAKNESSES:

– Wasn’t as productive as a senior as during his breakout junior campaign.
– Will probably need to add ten pounds or so for most three-man fronts.
– Looks more comfortable running in space than working through blockers.
– Needs to work more rush moves into his repertoire, gets caught on blocks.
– Anchor isn’t the best, can be run at or neutralized by quality blocking.
– Instincts are still a bit raw and can be fooled into biting on misdirection.
– Gets a little bit too aggressive in pursuit and can overrun the ballcarrier.

SUMMARY:

Some have speculated that Barr will go ahead of the class’ more-hyped pass rusher, South Carolina’s Jadeveon Clowney, but it’s clear that the latter is the more special player at this point. However, Barr is a high-motor player with some appealing physical tools who has already developed into a quality outside linebacker in just two seasons at the position. With further refinement, he should develop into a quality starter at the position, as most of his weaknesses can be addressed with further development and experience at the position, or with time in a pro strength program. RD 1