Does “Sack” Barrett deserve a new contract?

Shaq Attack

Through 3 weeks; Shaq Barrett aka Sack Barrett has been an absolute nightmare for opposing quarterbacks, well for the whole offense. Barrett has become the unexpected star on defense, amassing 8 sacks (leads the NFL), 8 QB hits, 14 tackles (7 TFL), and 2 FF. I’d say pretty decent stat line for a guy who signed a one year deal after playing with guys such as DeMarcus Ware and Von Miller out in Denver.

But does he deserve a pay day?

The Bucs signed Barrett to a 1 year $5M in March. For a guy to never had more thn 5.5 sacks (2015), he has definitely made his presence felt this year. But does he deserve a payday after this year? In my opinion, ABSOLUTELY! I wouldn’t pay him Khalil Mack ($141M/6 yrs) or Von Miller ($114M/6 years) money, but I’d pay him $20M over 3 years with some incentives.

His performance definitely has been something needed though for a defense who has struggled to garner sacks the last few years [outside of JPP 12.5 sacks in 2018). Barrett has tied records quicker than most can tie their shoes.

What the future holds

With news of JPP restructuring his contract with a path to the open market after this season, it only makes sense to lock up Barrett before it’s too late. It’s not every day we get a hidden gem like this in free-agency. Maybe, just maybe “Sack” Barrett can stick around for a few more years. It’d be nice to see him terrorize the league and our division rivals like he’s been able to do so far.