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CB Ronde Barber, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

HT: 5-10, WT: 184, Born: 4-7-1975, College: Virginia, Drafted: Round 3

2008 Projections

Best Case

Barber had his worst season in five years in 2007, dropping from what had been a consistent 80 solo tackles to under 50. Much of the decline was due to a change in how he was used, (i.e. less time in the slot where he made plays against the run, fewer targets from opposing quarterbacks) but some of it was the inevitable decline in his skills. Barber still has some upside as the Buc defensive line improves and the addition of Aqib Tailb may allow him to get back to his usual role more often. Still, his ceiling isn't at the CB1/DB1 level it once was.

Worst Case

If Barber continues to see a decline in skills and can't get back to the same run support ability, he becomes just another IDP corner. His 48 tackles last year won't be enough to justify using him as an every week starter and will barely keep him worthy of a roster spot.

Outlook

Barber should rebound in 2007. His coverage stats were the same as in his prior stud seasons and there were other reasons that his tackle stats may have dropped. It may not be reasonable to expect him to return to his former 80 solo tackle self, but the high 60s are certainly within reach. That would make him a DB3 level option with some additional upside. Still, it's risky to roster him as a starting caliber player in most standard leagues.

Writeups last modified: 2008-05-03 20:40:08