2014 NFL Draft Profile: UCLA linebacker Anthony Barr

The Eagles converted from a 4-3 defense to an odd front last season with familiar talent. With one season under their belt, the Eagles will now look to bolster the defense with players that fit the scheme. Their search for an appropriate and talented pass rushing outside linebacker will likely commence in May at the NFL Draft. UCLA's Anthony Barr has the versatility that the Eagles like and he could possibly be on the board at No. 22.

College Career

The No. 8 prospect in the state of California, Barr decided to take his talent to UCLA in 2010. He started his college career as a multiple threat offensive player. He spent time a running back and fullback for the Bruins. Barr appeared in 24 games (11 starts) in first two seasons and lineup everywhere on offense.

He moved to outside linebacker as a junior and started all 14 games. He was a first team All-Pac-12 selection by coaches and collected 83 tackles (21.5 for loss) and 13.5 sacks. He started in 12 games in 2013 and produced 66 tackles and 10 sacks. He was a consensus All-American and a first team All-Pac-12 selection as a senior.

Combine Numbers

Height: 6'5"

Weight: 255 lbs

Arm Length: 33 1/2"

Hands: 9 3/8"

40: 4.66 seconds,

Bench: 15 reps

Vertical Jump: 34.5 inches

Broad Jump: 119.0 inches

3 Cone: 6.82 seconds

Shuttle: 4.19 seconds

Strengths

Barr is a gifted athlete from an NFL family that features his father, Tony Brooks, who was a fullback and a fourth round pick of the Eagles in 1992. He also had three uncles that played in the NFL. Barr has exceptional speed for his size and has fluid hips that make him a rarity at his size when it comes to changing direction. He has solid recovery speed and takes on blocks well. He shows good pursuit and causes a lot of double teams, which benefits his teammates. He tackles well and is relentless with the pass rush. He was used in coverage and understands how to maneuver against running backs and slot receivers.

Weaknesses

Barr is still learning how to play the outside linebacker position. He relies heavily on his athleticism but will have to learn technique to be effective at the next level. He seems to lack strength and can be blocked out of the run game. He is a bit hesitant in coverage which causes late reactions to routes.

Eagles Outlook

Barr is similar to Dion Jordan when it comes to versatility and athleticism, as well as lack of experience at his position. If the Eagles were willing to take Jordan at No. 4 in last year's draft, they will certainly be interested in Barr at the No. 22 pick this May. The Eagles have the option of using Barr as a rotational pass rusher with Trent Cole sticking around for another year. This makes Barr appealing from a developmental standpoint, as they could use him on situational plays and teach him how to be a full-time linebacker at the next level. He would be an exciting added for a team that is looking for play-makers.

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