Tim Barnes Scouting Report

Tim Barnes started his collegiate career as an offensive guard. After redshirting in 2006, Barnes moved to the center spot prior to the 2007 campaign. There he served as backup to long-time starter Adam Spieker. The following three years Barnes was a permanent fixture on Missouri's offensive line. He stepped into a starting role in 2008 and started all 14 games. He helped pave the way for the Missouri offense that averaged 484.14 yards and 42.21 points per game. The offensive line also only allowed 1.21 sacks per game. For his efforts, Barnes earned All-Big 12 Honorable Mention accolades by the league coaches.

In 2009 Barnes played a big role in breaking in new quarterback Blaine Gabbert. While giving Gabbert plenty of time to throw, the offensive line played a much more important role in 2009. It was again Barnes who was the leader of the unit. The passing attack was not as explosive in 2010, but the line only gave up 20 sacks and the Tigers finished 10-2. Barnes certainly deserves a lot of credit for Missouri's success during his senior season and he was rewarded by being named to the All-Big 12 First Team.

Barnes will be rewarded again on draft day. He is a three year starter who has plenty of experience and, at 6-4 and 300 pounds, more than enough size to push back opposing linemen. Barnes' stock is rising and he is considered by many as one of the top three centers in this class. That means he should be off the board by the third or fourth round.

3/25 Update: Barnes was snubbed by the NFL combine, but the Missouri product is still one of the better centers in this class. That will not result in an early selection come draft time, but Barnes should be a solid mid-round player, with the third round not entirely out of the question. Barnes was worked very hard at Missouri's pro day and performed quite well in the position drills despite weighing in a little lighter than hoped.