The Denver Broncos are leaving no stone unturned in their attempts to put together a stout defensive unit in 2020. Per Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network, former safety and current linebacker Mark Barron arrived Wednesday night for a visit with the organization, which could lead to him joining his fourth NFL team.
The veteran FA LB Mark Barron arrived last night and is visiting. An intriguing option. https://t.co/M0EbDUvwuX
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 27, 2020
Barron played the left inside linebacker spot for the Pittsburgh Steelers last year, starting nine of the 15 games in which he appeared. He tied his career high by amassing three sacks, while also compiling 82 tackles (four of which came for a loss), four quarterback hits, three passes defended, one interception, and one fumble recovery.
Barron began his career as a safety with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after they selected him seventh overall in the 2012 NFL Draft. He has since grown into a linebacker's body, moving down closer to the line of scrimmage. With eight years of NFL experience under his belt, he has started 102 regular-season games all over the field.
With projected starter Todd Davis injured at right inside linebacker, the addition of Barron becomes intriguing, even as Josey Jewell has impressed. With Alexander Johnson set to start at the other inside linebacker spot, Denver could use Barron's veteran acumen to help anchor the linebacking core if the team ultimately decides to extend him an offer.
How quickly Barron would be able to get up to speed with the Broncos remains an unknown, but defensive coordinator Ed Donatell has extensive NFL experience working with defensive backs and likely could find multiple ways to utilize Barron.
Follow Us
Subscribe