Dallas Cowboys activate Anthony Barr after stint on PUP list

Anthony Barr signed with the Dallas Cowboys this offseason, giving the team a much-needed boost at linebacker. This far into training camp and one preseason game in, Barr has not been able to practice with the Cowboys. However, that is expected to change in the near future after a stint on the PUP list.

According to Aaron Wilson of the Pro Football Network, Barr has passed a physical and was activated by Dallas on Tuesday. He can now work with the team in full pads, looking to ramp up for the beginning of the regular season.

On Monday, McCarthy did confirm Barr would be returning to the practice field but did not give a specific timeline. Wednesday looks like the most likely date at the moment.

Barr signed a one-year, $3 million contract with the team just before training camp began. He is expected to be a massive help at linebacker, especially when Micah Parsons lines up outside of his traditional position. There will be plenty of different looks Dallas can throw around with Barr and Parsons on the field at the same time.

As for his past, Barr is a former first-round pick in the 2014 NFL Draft, originally playing for the Minnesota Vikings. He has been named to the Pro Bowl four different times, recording 495 tackles, 17.5 sacks, eight forced fumbles, and five interceptions throughout his career. If Barr plays out to his potential, it could be a huge signing for the Cowboys.

As for elsewhere at linebacker, Leighton Vander Esch and Jabril Cox are expected to be major contributors. Defensive coordinator Dan Quinn revitalized the Dallas defense last season but still needed some extra help at the second level. Barr brings exactly what they need now that he is healthy and ready to go through training camp.