The biggest names in free agency signed long ago, back when the NFL market initially opened up in mid-March, but that doesn’t mean solid contributors can’t still be found this late in the offseason. One of the more established players who remains available for any team to sign is four-time Pro Bowl linebacker, Anthony Barr.

A member of the Minnesota Vikings for the past eight seasons, the last time Barr became a free agent in 2018, he was the subject of a controversial decision to spurn the New York Jets to stay with the team who drafted him. This time around, Barr hasn’t generated much interest.

For one, teams may have durability concerns about the 30-year-old linebacker who’s missed 19 games in his past two seasons, while others may be worried about his effectiveness when he is healthy. Barr used to have freakish athleticism along with his high IQ, making him effective in all aspects, against the run, in coverage, and rushing the passer. He hasn’t done any of the three particularly well as of late.

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Yet, Barr still provides glimpses here and there of his elite play, such as when he intercepted Matthew Stafford twice a season ago against the Los Angeles Rams.

The point is, several teams could still benefit from signing Anthony Barr this offseason. Here are three possible free agency destinations for the former UCLA star.

 

Anthony Barr boosts Las Vegas Raiders linebacking corps

Even though the Las Vegas Raiders may currently be content with Denzel Perryman as one of their starting middle linebackers, Jayon Brown could likely be improved upon. Divine Deablo, their 2021 third-round pick is currently breathing down Brown’s neck, but Anthony Barr would take the starting gig from day one.

  • Anthony Barr stats: 72 tackles, 3 TFL, 2.5 sacks, 3 INT, 2 FR in 2021

Signing Barr would give the Raiders more versatility inside, as he can be utilized in a number of ways. Perryman holds his own in run defense, racking up 154 combined tackles a year ago, whereas Barr can be better at covering zones over the middle of the field, while still mixing in as a blitzer. Although Barr has yet to play in a 3-4 defense, his athleticism and intuition should allow him to fit in with any scheme.