With the recent addition of Anthony Barr to the Cowboys’ defense it’s time to take an in-depth look at Barr’s production and his fit within Quinn’s scheme for this upcoming season.

Barr is one of the few linebackers who has the versatility to stay on the field on all three downs without a significant drop off to his production. Barr is excellent in run support; his athleticism enables him to easily maneuver through traffic and his play recognition often makes it possible for him to snuff out plays before they can develop. In 2021 Barr was able to accumulate 72 tackles with three for loss in an injury shortened season.

He has also proven himself to be a sure tackler, posting a missed tackle percentage of only 5.3%.

In the pass game he is also able to generate pressure and fall back into coverage when called upon; while neither a premiere pass rusher or coverage backer he is solid enough to contribute consistently in both facets. Barr was able to end the season with 2.5 sacks, a career high 3 interceptions, 5 pass deflections, 10 pressures, and 6 quarterback hits.

The Cowboys were able to acquire Barr far below his estimated sticker price partially due to his recent injury issues. Barr was limited to only 13 games over the past two seasons due to a torn pectoral muscle and multiple leg injuries. While his availability has become a concern his play when healthy has not. Barr was on track last year to finish with his best statistical season of his NFL career. If not for missing 6 games, Barr would have finished with career highs in sacks, tackles, passes defended and quarterback hits. He is by far the best “pure” linebacker on the Cowboys’ roster at this point.

Dan Quinn will utilize Barr’s full skill set, while a majority of his snaps will most likely come from the Mike position Quinn will also occasionally utilize Barr’s pass rushing and coverage skills to further confuse defenses in pressure looks. Barr manning the middle linebacker role will also enable Jayron Kearse to play more traditional box safety and allow Micah Parsons to remain a primary pass rusher. Not only am I anticipating Barr to have a phenomenal season within Quinn’s scheme I am expecting his addition to elevate the level of play of the entire defense as a whole.

Projections: 80 tackles, 1 interception, 4 pass deflections, 5 pressures, 2 sacks.