When it comes to success in the National Football League, a common consensus is that establishing the line of scrimmage is crucial. To dominate that battle, you need large humans.
The Washington Commanders have signed UCF Knights fifth-year defensive tackle Ricky Barber to a UDFA deal. After the regular season, Barber shined in the Hula Bowl and showcased his knack for finding the quarterback to scouts across the league.
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Barber was named a 2020 Freshman All-American by the Football Writers Association of America. The former Western Kentucky Hilltoppers defensive tackle entered the transfer portal soon after and joined Gus Malzahn, who recruited him to Orlando, Fla., in 2021 to impose his 295-pound, 6-foot-3-inch frame on American Athletic Conference offenses. He was instrumental in the Knights’ transition to the Big 12.
Sep 24, 2022; Orlando, Florida, USA; Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets quarterback Jeff Sims (10) is sacked by UCF Knights defensive tackle Ricky Barber (5) during the second half at FBC Mortgage Stadium. © Mike Watters-Imagn Images
In his senior year, he was tabbed All-Big 12 Honorable Mention and an honorable mention for the conference’s defensive lineman of the year. He appeared in all 12 games for the Knights last season, starting all but one. He finished the season with 34 tackles, including six for a loss.
The Knights fielded an underwhelming 4-8 campaign last season, but the defensive line was one of their strongest units as the year progressed. If Barber taps into his experience and continues his steady climb as he’s done before, he can make the 53-man roster in Washington.
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UCF finished in the Top 3 for rushing defenses in the Big 12. Look for Barber to perhaps be a factor in helping corral Super Bowl Champion Saquon Barkley and the newly minted New York Giant Cam Skattebo in the NFC East.
Related: UCF Star RB RJ Harvey Sends Three-Word Message to Broncos
