Drafting Another Barber

In case you missed it, Marion Barber’s brother Dominique Barber is at the NFL Combine and will be in the NFL draft. Dominique played FS for the Minnesota Gophers. Obviously, Barber has the bloodlines, and he’ll get a look at in this draft. He’s a good player. We’ll see how does in the rest of the combine workout tomorrow. He did have a solid benchpress with 23 reps.

Here’s a brief analysis for Dominique Barber:

The NFL is in his blood: father (Marion II) played in the league and brother (Marion III, Dallas Cowboys) is waiting for him there right now. He hasn’t showed the promise to be an NFL playmaker quite yet, but then again he didn’t have a lot of help on a poor Minnesota defense. It is not a good sign when a strong safety like Barber leads the team in tackles (71 solo, 100 total, 5.5 for loss).

Positives: Has improved every year with the Gophers. … Has the leadership skills to control the secondary. … Adequate speed to handle No. 3 receivers. … Willing to fill against the run and quick enough to blow up bubble screens and stretch plays behind the line. … Shows some instincts in coverage — able to read the quarterback’s eyes and break on the ball. … Good bloodlines. … Can be a contributor on special teams (blocked three kicks for Minnesota).

Negatives: Does a little bit of everything, but is not outstanding at any one aspect. … Is not an explosive tackler or a great playmaker. … Sort of a free-strong safety ?tweener, as opposed to a versatile combination safety. … Inconsistent hands on interceptions. … Has only adequate range and does not always take the proper angle to prevent the big play. … Does not have great strength or consistently wrap up.

Q&A Snippet:

Growing up, who was your favorite NFL player and why?
Emmitt Smith and Walter Payton; The way they play the game – the passion and love they have.

Who has been the biggest influence on your football career and how?
Family. They are at every game – Mom, dad, little brother. Older brother gives me advice. I love my family.

Could be a second day draft pick, could provide some depth and tackling machine on special teams. We’ll see.