Packers: Top three performances from loss to Buccaneers in Week 6
By Jesse Fry
2. Krys Barnes
Stat line: 10 tackles
The defense did not have its best showing. Part of that falls on the offense basically handing the Buccaneers 14 points off of turnovers.
One interception returned for a touchdown and one taken to the two-yard line put the defense in a bad position. But they also did themselves no favors with their biggest stars Za’Darius and Preston Smith missing in action, and their problems against the run rearing their head once again.
One of the bright spots was Krys Barnes.
Playing for the injured Christian Kirksey, Barnes was all over the field making tackles.
Barnes was far from perfect as he got beat in coverage by Rob Gronkowski, but he was able to make the tackles and not be a gaping hole in the middle. There is no word how bad Kirksey’s injury is or how long he’ll be out. So, Barnes might be the main man in the middle for a little while longer.
Barnes needs a little more bulk to handle the rigors of his position in the NFL but his speed is a big asset.
If and when rookie Kamal Martin returns, the Packers will have a very athletic combo in the middle of their defense. He and Barnes will provide the most speed the team has had at that position in some time.
Barnes is young and will make mistakes, but he’s off to a good start.