Longtime Viking Anthony Barr Calls it a Career

Linebacker Anthony Barr revealed on social media Tuesday his intention to retire after a distinguished career, primarily spent with the Minnesota Vikings. At 33 years old, Barr last played during the 2023 season. The Vikings originally selected him as the No. 9 overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft—their top choice following the appointment of defensive specialist head coach Mike Zimmer. Barr represented the versatile, off-ball linebacker prototype Zimmer prized for his defensive strategy, demonstrating a mix of speed, intelligence, and toughness that made him a vital element of the team’s defense.

Barr devoted eight impactful seasons to Minnesota before signing with the Dallas Cowboys for the 2022 campaign. He then returned to the Vikings in 2023 but did not participate in games during the 2024 season. Reflecting on his journey, Barr shared on Instagram, “For the past 25 years, football has been at the center of my life. I've dedicated myself fully to the game, and in return, it has given me more than I could’ve ever imagined.” These words reflect the profound connection and gratitude he holds for the sport that shaped his life, while also expressing a sense of peace with his choice to retire.

Throughout his career, Barr appeared in 116 regular-season games, starting 108—a testament to his durability and consistent excellence. He earned Pro Bowl honors four years in a row, from 2015 through 2018, underscoring his status as one of the league’s elite linebackers during that time. Barr was also a pivotal part of the Vikings team that reached the 2017 NFC Championship Game, where they narrowly lost to the eventual Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles. His blend of talent, leadership, and commitment left a lasting impact on the Minnesota franchise. Undoubtedly, moving forward, Barr will reflect fondly on his career—just as fans will remember and cherish the kind of player he was every Sunday.