Allen Barbre

[Patler]

Well, we'll see. Physically; he's got it. I hope he makes it but I just doubt he'll be good at this point. Just being physical isn't going to cut it in the NFL like it did in DII college.

I have no idea if he will succeed ultimately or not. I'm not expecting great contributions from him in 2008. Rivera didn't play much until his third season, Wahle took several years to really latch on to a position, Timmerman didn't play until his second year, and then it was out of necessity that he got the chance when he did. I expect Barbre to struggle at times if he does play as a rookie.

BUT, whereas Hawkins was viewed as a long shot from all respects other than athletically, the scouting reports on Barbre are as promising as any you will find for any lineman other than the elite first rounders. The report identifies many things about his actual PLAY that are outstanding, unusual or at least commendable. The negatives are simply consistency and perhaps requiring more reps to catch on. But he is said to be a hard working and willing to do extra fim work.

Normally, lower round linemen are described to have significant flaws (size, speed, strength, quickness, flexibility, significant injury history, etc.). Things they just can't do or can't become. Barbre's is unusual in that even when the report states a negative, it is qualified by "sometimes" or with outright statements that he can do it, but didn't always.

Barbre has as good a shot as anyone, certainly he is no guarantee.
Hawkins was and remains a longshot at best.

[packinpatland]

I hear he's dumb as a box of rocks too. I'm not so sure how that translates to the the OL, which is usually a pretty smart crew.

He's made it this far hasn't he.

[NewsBruin]

I wonder why all the drafting reports talk about someone's tail as his "bubble." It's like, "Dude, I don't want to sound gay and all, but he's got a pretty good butt."

[Joemailman]

The negatives about Barbre seem to be things that can be corrected through good coaching, provided he is a willing student. His ability to move in open space, on the other hand, can't be taught. He has a chance to be another solid mid-round pick for the Packers.

[the_idle_threat]

The rest of it can't be taught either if he's really, really stupid. :P :P :P

I don't actually think he's that stupid ... I'm just sayin'.

[Rastak]

For what it's worth, I haven't heard much negative about the guy and have heard some positives. Sounds like a decent enough prospect.

[the_idle_threat]

Yeah ... In all honesty, I think he sounds like a great prospect for the ZBS. There should be no reason for him to see the field as a rookie---with all the guys we drafted last year plus the holdovers---so I'm not worried about a slow learning curve. As long as he's up to speed in a year or two, I think it's a good 4th round pick.