Film Don't Lie | Ryan Barnes
Ryan Barnes has a 4-star offer list, but a 3-star ranking.
I know the default answer to this for many is “the offers are the only thing that matter”, but there’s always more to it than that. The newest Notre Dame commit has prototype size to match up with big receivers one on one, but isn’t the prototype with his game yet.
If he puts in the work he has a chance to develop into an elite corner, though, and that’s one reason why Notre Dame fans should be excited about this addition to the 2021 recruiting class.
Height: 6’2”
Weight: 175
Projected Position: Cornerback
ISD Grade: 88 (3-star)
National Average Grade: 86.8 (3-star)
What he does best:
Barnes shows good instincts and recognition in zone. He’s aggressive after making his reads and is able to get to perimeter plays in a hurry like he does here.
He’s one of the better tackling corners I have watched in this class. Simply a consistent, wrap tackler that doesn’t hesitate. He’s going to be a plus run defender.
They say football is a game of inches and Barnes has that advantage over so many others because he’s so long. He can win 50/50 because he’ll high point the football and can reach to get his hands on the football where others might be limited.
He has a ton of potential to be a press man corner because of that size and his compete level. He does a nice job of getting into the body of receivers to take away space and can flip his hips fluidly to run deep.
What he needs to improve:
His track times aren’t great and I have some questions about his deep speed. Yes, that’s something that he can improve and is probably going to be a factor in him playing corner or moving to safety.
Though the tools are there for him to be great in press, he needs a lot of technique work with his footwork and jam. The guys he is going up against don’t know how to release.
Block destruction is another area where he can be better.
What’s his ceiling?
It’s undeniable that Barnes has unique size to play corner and that’s why he’s so intriguing as a prospect. If Mike Mickens does get him to be technically sound and he has the speed to match up with the top guy on the boundary, he could end up being a high-level starter for multiple seasons.
At the very least he should be a quality player on special teams and can possibly move to safety with his instincts and tackling ability. He’s a good take in the class and someone who isn’t close to realizing his potential.