The Cincinnati Bengals decided to make an addition to the roster before the big cuts get underway.
Seeking help in the offensive trenches for the fourth preseason game, the team brought aboard center Kirk Barron.
Here are some quick facts to know about Barron.
Background
Barron started 39 games consecutively at Purdue, originally choosing Ohio University before going elsewhere. He was the starting center the last two years there.
As a pro, Barron inked a deal with the Miami Dolphins after the draft but got waived a few weeks later.
Monster Numbers
Barron, 6’2″ and 300 pounds, repped the 225-pound bench press 36 times at his pro day and ran a 5.19 40-yard dash.
According to Scott Davidson of the South Bend Tribune, Barron regularly put up a 600-pound squat and 450-pound bench press.
XFL Bound?
After getting cut by Miami, it turns out Barron had an NFL alternative in mind.
The XFL.
According to Michael Conroy of the South Bend Tribune, Barron was training in Denver: “Barron has been training in Denver as he was planning to play in the first season of the XFL, which is slated to begin in February.”
NFL Ready?
Barron didn’t mince words when he was asked about his pro prospects, per Davidson:
“I feel like I’m the best true center in the draft. I would be a very athletic interior lineman. I’m very strong and I have a ton of experience in the best conference in the country. I’ve gone toe-to-toe versus some of the best defensive linemen out there.”
The XFL will have to wait, as the NFL dream is on once again. The Bengals had four active linemen miss practice Monday, so them seeking help makes sense. Thursday is another chance for Barron to put some film on tape and perhaps carve out a roster spot on a practice squad somewhere.
