Tampa Bay Buccaneers rookie safety Mark Barron has the potential to be an elite player in this league, but one weakness he must improve upon is his coverage ability.
Barron will be tested by Eli Manning this week
Knowing Barron’s weakness, the Panthers targeted him in coverage seven times on Sunday, more than all but one safety in the league (D.J. Gomes, Redskins). Of the seven targets, five were completed for 91 yards.
Among all safeties, Barron earned the third lowest grade for his cumulative play (versus the run and pass) according to Pro Football Focus.
The Buccaneers didn’t draft Barron for his coverage ability, but they also can’t afford for him to become a liability if they hope to compete in 2012. Hopefully Barron quickly improves, because more performances like this will earn him a seat on the bench until he develops that aspect of his game.
