Former Vikings 4-Time Pro Bowler Anthony Barr Announces Retirement

Anthony Barr, a four-time Pro Bowl linebacker and former Minnesota Vikings first-round pick, announced his retirement from the NFL after a ten-year career. Drafted ninth overall in the 2014 NFL Draft out of UCLA, Barr quickly became a key defensive player for the Vikings under coach Mike Zimmer, known for his versatility and strong all-around linebacker skills. He spent nine seasons with Minnesota, earning four consecutive Pro Bowl selections from 2015 to 2018, and had a brief stint with the Dallas Cowboys in 2022 before returning to the Vikings for a final season in 2023. Throughout his career, Barr accumulated 554 tackles, 18.5 sacks, and multiple forced turnovers in 116 games, though injuries affected his later years. Beyond football, he co-founded the Raise The Barr foundation with his mother, focusing on supporting single-parent families, a mission he plans to continue post-retirement. Barr leaves behind a respected legacy as one of the best linebackers in Vikings history and a committed advocate off the field.