5 Vikings who disappointed during the 2018 season

5. Anthony Barr – LB

Barr played last season during a contract year and usually, that is when many players have career performances. But the same can’t be said about his play in 2018.

Barr struggled early in the season, looking especially lost in pass coverage. He was also missing tackles and not getting much pressure on the quarterbacks the Vikings were facing each week.

Maybe he was injured or afraid of getting flagged for roughing the passer, but ol’ No. 55 just wasn’t himself and it was hurting Minnesota’s defense more than he was helping it. Barr didn’t even register a sack until Week 14.

He did end up missing three games and when he returned to the lineup he played much better. During the Vikings’ final five matchups of the season, Barr racked up 25 tackles and three sacks.

Somehow, he still made the Pro Bowl this year. But anyone who watched Barr in 2018 and actually paid attention to his play on the field realized what a down season he actually had.

He finished the year with 55 tackles, three sacks, two pass breakups, and one forced fumble, which isn’t bad, but nowhere near the expectations many had for him this season.

Barr will likely still get that big payday this offseason from a team looking for a linebacker who can rush the passer. But it seems highly unlikely that he plays for Minnesota again, as the team simply just can’t afford him.