With the NFL Draft being over, there is still a chance for the Cowboys to bring in some new faces. One player Dallas can bring in is free agent linebacker, Anthony Barr.
Last season was probably his last with the Minnesota Vikings. The 30-year-old recorded 72 tackles (38 solo), 2.5 sacks, six quarterback hits, three interceptions and five pass breakups. Barr recorded a Pro Football Focus grade of 62.9, including a pass-rush grade of 72.3.
While Barr is still a quality linebacker, he’s been set back by injuries in the past two seasons. Barr played just two games in the 2020 season after suffering a torn pectoral muscle. He also missed six games in 2021 due to injuries as well. Barr’s injury history and age are the two biggest reasons why he remains unsigned.
However, Barr can still contribute to a team and make an impact. Linebacker Micah Parsons could use some depth behind him at the position. The Cowboys also aren’t foreign to signing veteran players attempting to get their careers back on track. Safety Malik Hooker and edge rusher Dante Fowler are two recent examples from the last couple of seasons.
Another reason to bring Barr in is his connection to a member of Dallas’ coaching staff. George Edwards, currently a senior defensive assistant for the Cowboys, was Minnesota’s defensive coordinator from 2012-2019. He coached Barr from his rookie season in 2014 to his departure in 2019. Under Edwards, Barr made four Pro Bowls and received a Second-team All-Pro honor in 2015.
One of the biggest issues in bringing Barr in would be his salary. The Cowboys have around $13 million in cap space and Barr made $10 million last season with the Vikings. The contract Dallas would likely offer would be at or close to the veteran minimum, which may not be acceptable for Barr.
Still, it would be worth it to try and bring Barr in. If he’s signed, you get an adequate veteran presence at the weak-side linebacker spot. He can rub off on Parsons well and bring added help in coverage and in pass-rush. Barr could bring some value to Dallas; why not give it a shot?
