Mark Barron
6'1, 213 pounds | Safety | Alabama
Ball skills: For a safety, Barron has excellent hands. He makes a play on a lot of passes and gets himself into good position to intercept the ball. Had seven interceptions in 2009, his first year as a starter. Finished career with 12 interceptions.
Pass coverage: When he’s consistently used in coverage, Barron has good hands and makes some tough interceptions. Has good instincts to play zone. Not overly smooth changing direction. Inexperienced in straight man coverage, but has the skills to play it. Although he is a much better player when he can work straight ahead, Barron should be able to cover tight ends well underneath. If they run long routes, Barron may have a hard time keeping up. Made a lot of the coverage calls and adjustments for the complex Alabama defense.
Mark Barron 2012 NFL Draft scouting report
Run support: Barron is quick to diagnose in run support. Was used a lot in the box and looks to be comfortable playing near the line. Is NFL-ready in the strength department and won’t get knocked around by bigger ball carriers. Doesn’t look to have the on-field speed to chase down fast runners from behind.
Size: Barron has a good frame for a safety. He’s not too lanky and is strong throughout his body. May not get much bigger, but he doesn’t need too.
Tackling: Isn’t a consistent, reliable tackler. Prefers to go for the big hit to charge up the defense. Has admitted he has to change his playing style to not get penalties/fines in the NFL. Productive throughout his career, finishing with more than 200 career tackles. Used some on blitzes.
Final word: Barron has nice strength, on-field intelligence and three years of starting experience on the nation’s best defense. Although no area of Barron’s game is elite, he’s fair and away the best safety in the 2012 NFL Draft. He should be able to contribute in the NFL immediately at strong safety. Has had some injury issues. Missed the NFL Combine with a sports hernia. Tore a pectoral muscle in 2010, which knocked him out of the team’s bowl game.
