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Vikings LB Anthony Barr Ready To Take Next Step

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Anthony Barr is now a pillar -- he just doesn't feel like it quite yet.

"I don't know if I feel like a veteran just yet," Barr said. "Still got a lot to learn, a lot to improve on. But it's good to be back here, good to be back in the swing of things, so it's a good time."

Everyone can see Barr is a gifted athlete. What the Minnesota Vikings would like to see is someone who is completely committed to football, and through that becomes a great playmaker. Because when teammates see Barr, they see a rare talent.

"I think as long as we can keep him healthy, he's got a chance to be one of the best linebackers to play the game," said defensive end Brian Robison. "He's just an athletic freak of nature when he's back there. He's tall, lean, he can do some things rushing for us as well as dropping into coverage, so he's really one of those guys that can do a little bit of everything."

With a head coach in Mike Zimmer keenly aware of what a defensive standout looks like.

"You love when you have a defensive coach. Just a physical, tough mindset," said Barr. "High expectations, high demand, but great rewards at the end of it."

He's just trying to draw energy -- from training camp, and the people around him.

"It's a great time. I don't mind it, I don't mind being out here," Barr said. "It's great support, great fan support. We've got some great fans out here and they make our job easier."

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