Washington Redskins: Kevin Barnes Prepared To Step-Up In 2010

With a decent rookie season under his belt, coaching hoopla considered, Kevin Barnes is prepared to make his mark with the Washington Redskins in 2010.

“Now I’m a year older, a year stronger, and a year more experienced, so I’m ready for anyone,” said Barnes, a DMV native and Maryland alum.

The Redskins drafted Barnes in the third-round of the 2009 Draft under the regime of Vinny Cerrato and his embarrassing associates. However, as surprising as it may be, Barnes has the potential to become a decent player NOT drafted in the first-round, which is almost unheard of with Cerrato at the helm.

At 6’1, 190-pounds, Terps and ACC fans are plenty familiar with Barnes’ ability to tackle and lay down the big hit. Fortunately for us Redskins’ fans, numerous reports have claimed that Barnes has drastically improved his coverage skills and mechanics this season.

Not to say that Kevin Barnes is the next best thing (not saying he won’t be either), but it’s always nice to see a guy getting better and progressing the way coaches had hoped. Plus, it’s good to hear that Barnes is comfortable with Jim Haslett’s new defensive scheme.

“This is the same defense I ran for most of my college career, so it’s not really too hard picking it up,” Barnes said. “I definitely feel more comfortable, just from the outlook of everything.”

Barnes is currently competing to become the Redskins’ nickel or dime package corner and has some good talent around him to learn from.

“To have a unit like this, with DeAngelo, Carlos, and Phillip, it’s really something,” Barnes added.  ”I admire them, and to be able to come out here and play with them is special.”

Look for big things from Kevin Barnes in 2010 – representing the DMV!