Big names Seattle Seahawks need to avoid during 2019 NFL free agency

Anthony Barr, OLB, Minnesota Vikings

There’s this growing belief that K.J. Wright could be leaving this offseason. It’s still unclear if that’ll actually be the case, but we must always be mentally prepared for the possibility of top talent departing via free agency.

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If that rumor becomes reality, the Seahawks must find a capable replacement at outside linebacker. On the surface, going out and signing Anthony Barr seems like a solid solution. However, upon further review, it’s clear that Barr wouldn’t be the Wright replacement Seattle would need if their veteran linebacker departs.

Here’s the problem with Barr: he’s overrated and has too many flaws to his game. Sure, he’s a tremendous athlete with good speed and pass-rushing ability. Plus, he’s pretty good against the run, which has always been a strength of the Seahawks’ linebackers. The problem is that, by what we’ve seen over the last two years, Barr isn’t reliable in coverage.

For how much money he’s likely to command as a four-time Pro Bowl linebacker, Barr’s inability to cover the pass isn’t worth the price of admission. The Seahawks would be better off throwing whatever money they’ve got at Wright and hoping he decides to stick around for another few years.