Steve Sarkisian wishes more players would follow Jahdae Barron's NFL process
One of the biggest offseason developments for Texas was the return of defensive back Jahdae Barron.
Though he had already proven to be a very good and productive player, the NFL scouting world was unsure if he had the ability to play cornerback on the next level. The main driver behind Barron’s decision to return was to get more snaps at that premier position. Thanks to the rapid development of Jaylon Guilbeau at Star (nickel), Barron was able to move to cornerback permanently in August.
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Barron’s return to Texas allowed him to return to his original position and prove himself to the NFL. As Inside Texas has written for years, he was always a corner. Texas wants a player with corner coverage ability at nickel, provided he also has the intelligence and toughness to play the position. (Guess what, Guilbeau could also play corner at a high level)
Now, with the return to his original position, not only does the NFL know Barron has high level intangibles due to his ability to play nickel, it also knows he has the talent, athleticism, and technique to remain at corner, especially after he runs a projected 4.45 at the NFL combine next spring.
The NFL’s loss was Texas’ gain. It’ll also be a big gain for Barron and his bank account as he shoots up NFL Draft boards. In all likelihood, the Thorpe Award semifinalist will go in the second round at the latest.
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In his Monday press conference with media, Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian touched on the impact of Barron’s return, both not only for Barron but also the program.
“I think from a team perspective him deciding to come back is an easy one. We’re better with Jahdae Barron on our team. As versatile as he’s been for us and how he can contribute not only on defense but what he’s doing on special teams for us right now has been huge. His ability to play multiple positions. His decision to come back was one that I wish all of our guys would go through the same process he went through. And part of that process is getting the grades from the NFL and it’s not just the grades that PFF or one of these websites puts out but it’s actually written reports that we get from NFL teams. In that report they’ll say, this is your grade, this is what you do well, and here’s where you can improve that grade. If the things are tangible in there to improve that grade then it sure is worth your while because I think so many times guys are thinking I just gotta get to the league so I can get to the second contract, but all the while there’s still money there that can be made that you never get to make up again. Wherever you get drafted in that first deal that is your money for the first four years. So you never get a chance to go make that back. I think Jahdae has made himself a ton of money this year by coming back. I think he’s continually matured off the field as well as what his leadership has been on the field. He’s shown the versatility that he can play multiple positions. And so I think it’s been a win-win for all parties involved. Like I said, for us as a team we’re really fortunate that he decided to come back.”
Barron is the highest rated player on defense per Pro Football Focus and was rated as the best player on the team per one Inside Texas source.
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Assuming he drastically improves his draft status, he’ll follow in the footsteps of defensive tackle T’Vondre Sweat who returned for one final year before returning to win the Outland Trophy and get drafted in the second round.
