Before the new season begins, the Baltimore Ravens and Carolina Panthers might have the best chance of landing former Pro Bowler Anthony Barr. One insider is reportedly pushing the Green Bay Packers to sign the former opponent in order to provide them depth. Though Barr might be the least expensive linebacker available on a one-year contract, there are a few experienced players like Shaquille Leonard. Barr may still be active, but as he gets older, it appears like he has more time to play before he retires and is eligible for a veteran’s discount.
Even though they have Roquan Smith, the Ravens still lack an experienced linebacker to complement him. Although Kyle Van Noy seems like a good fit, they need a more seasoned player to start alongside Smith. Barr’s legendary status is still remembered by many Vikings supporters, so it’s not as though he doesn’t merit another chance. If he chooses to leave the league, he has a lot to offer a team for at least four years.
Barr caused havoc for several offenses, most notably Aaron Rodgers, by snagging the ball and pursuing him. He hasn’t been the same player as he was a few years ago because injuries have been limiting his career. From 2019 through 2022, he received an overall rating from Pro Football Focus of less than 63.0 in each season. But since the Packers are rebuilding behind Jeff Hafley’s defense with Edgerrin Cooper, they don’t look to bring in Barr.
The Panthers signed Jadeveon Clowney this offseason, but they are still in the running for a veteran linebacker. Shaq Thompson might be there, but they ought to bring him in for veteran’s benefits.
Panthers and Ravens could be the favorites to land Anthony Barr, a former pro bowler
Additional Possible Locations
Saints of New Orleans
To bring this disappointing club anywhere near the playoffs, the Saints require all the assistance they can get. Derek Carr’s chances of starting any longer appear to be slim due to New Orleans’ offensive outlook, therefore they should keep remaking the defense. While the offense adjusts, it doesn’t harm to try to reset and concentrate on one end of the field. The Panthers should be able to surprise the league with this move, as they were able to do with Cam Newton almost ten years ago.
Carr won’t be helped at all by the offense that only consists of Chris Olave, Rashid Shaheed, and running back Alvin Kamara. The least they could do was hold their breath to try to bolster their protection in one more way. Barr should be on sale, but the Saints are in cap hell.
Chargers of Los Angeles
The Chargers don’t have a huge need at linebacker because they have Khalil Mack and Joey Bosa back. Adding another veteran in case one slips between the gaps is never a bad idea. Mack and Bosa will eventually become expensive, so it would be wise to keep a veteran on hand.
The Dallas Cowboys
As an NFL fan, nobody knows what the Cowboys are doing this offseason. Their single offseason signing was Eric Kendricks, but they don’t have enough depth at linebacker. Barr’s relationship with Mike Zimmer is another reason why he might make a good addition. Since Leighton Vander-Esch and Dante Fowler Jr. won’t be returning, it would be a great way for Dallas’ defense to start a new chapter.
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