Vikings take linebacker Anthony Barr with No. 9 pick
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Anthony Barr, a first team All-American linebacker from UCLA, is the newest member of the Vikings. Minnesota selected Barr with the ninth overall pick. The ninth pick was already traded twice on the night, with the Bills trading it to Cleveland to move up to the fourth pick and the Browns then flip flopping selections with Minnesota.
Barr's play the last two seasons is all the more impressive when you consider he played his first two years with the Bruins as a running back. He's made the transition look seamless, however, posting a total of 23 1/2 sacks in college. Barr also forced 10 fumbles, proving he can be a disruptive force for opposing offenses to deal with.
Barr's speed is probably his greatest asset, both off the snap and gaining ground on the ball carrier. He closes down plays quickly and is a good open field tackler. The Vikings will have the flexibility to use Barr in space and play him with his hand off the ground, or use him as an edge rusher to get to the passer.
Minnesota doesn't have a project on its hands, as Barr's athleticism will allow him to step in and contribute right away.