Vikings’ Anthony Barr Signs With Cowboys, Broncos Wary Of Linebacker Depth

As training camps continue many teams are getting a better idea of what areas they lack depth in and what players they need to target.

For the Broncos, their struggling linebacker core was one that needed help, but the disappointment deepened when former Vikings Pro Bowl Linebacker Anthony Barr signed with the Dallas Cowboys.

Barr reportedly narrowed his list down to two teams, the Denver Broncos and the Dallas Cowboys, although he did have some interest from the Washington Commanders. Barr was once one of the NFL’s best linebackers, and not too long ago either.

He was a Pro Bowler from 2015-2018 while playing for the Minnesota Vikings. However, injuries only allowed Barr to play in just 12 games between 200-21.

For the Cowboys, the addition of Barr helps add a veteran presence to the linebacker core that’s full of potential. Currently featured are Leighton Vander Esch and reigning Defensive Rookie of the Year Micah Parsons.

Dallas looked to improve their core after releasing former second-round pick Jaylon Smith last fall. The Cowboys had the seventh-best scoring defense in the NFL but looked to improve on their passing and run defense, where they finished 20th and 16th in the league, respectively.

As for the Broncos, the lost chance on Barr hurts their prospects, especially for their inside linebacker core. With re-signing Josey Jewell, signing Alex Singleton and players such as Jonas Griffith impressing at training camp, it remains clear that Broncos’ personnel are not happy with their current core. Jewell has received high praise from Broncos’ general manager George Paton and Singleton does bring a veteran presence, but it remains to be seen if this is the final look to Denver’s linebacker core.

Denver also had veteran linebacker Joe Schobert in for a visit last week but no details have emerged on a potential signing.