Minnesota Vikings LB Anthony Barr having ‘a good camp so far’

DETROIT, MI - OCTOBER 25: Matthew Stafford #9 of the Detroit Lions is sacked by Anthony Barr #55 of the Minnesota Vikings in the second half during an NFL game at Ford Field on October 25, 2015 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Dave Reginek/Getty Images)
DETROIT, MI - OCTOBER 25: Matthew Stafford #9 of the Detroit Lions is sacked by Anthony Barr #55 of the Minnesota Vikings in the second half during an NFL game at Ford Field on October 25, 2015 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Dave Reginek/Getty Images)

Anthony Barr has been working hard in training camp to get back on track for the 2017 season and the Minnesota Vikings coaches have noticed his efforts.

Last season, Anthony Barr didn’t seem like his usual self. Battling injuries, the Minnesota Vikings linebacker played all 16 games during the 2016 campaign, but took a step backwards in several statistical categories.

While Barr was able maintain a steady pace in tackles, his sack number dropped from 3.5 to 2.0 and forced fumbles dropped from 3 to 1. The former #9 overall draft pick in 2014 has a lot to prove in 2017, and knows his career may depend on making an impact this year.

Recently, Vikings defensive coordinator George Edwards was discussing Barr’s efforts at training camp in Mankato, Minnesota as well as his role with the team. That conversation was shared on the official website of the Minnesota Vikings.

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"“Anthony wears a lot of different hats and he’s pretty good at wearing those hats, and he’s really had a good camp so far,” Edwards added. “We’ll look forward as we keep moving through camp and keep progressing down the road.”"

Barr’s athleticism makes him an interesting player. The combination of speed, power, and agility have helped land him in the Pro Bowl the last two years, but for now the team will continue to evaluate his play and figure out what is best for the franchise going forward.

"“We’ll just have to see as we keep progressing down the road,” Edwards said. “Again, we’re trying to get these guys in the best position to take advantage of their skill set."

Next: Vikings 2017 schedule breakdown

Anthony Barr will be part of the starting group of linebackers which will include Eric Kendricks and a new face to replace the retired Chad Greenway. If Barr can play at a high level, it will drastically increase the odds the Minnesota Vikings have of making a deep playoff run in 2017.

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