P.J. Barr is putting the start of his coaching career on hold, at least temporarily, to pursue his dream to play in the NFL.
A former offensive lineman at Maine, Barr joined Rutgers football two weeks ago in a player development role. Then a twist came…over the weekend, Barr was invited to participate in the upcoming Pittsburgh Steelers rookie minicamp.
Steelers minicamp begins May 13.
Barr played four years at Bucknell, where he was recruited by head coach Joe Susan, who coached the linebackers at Rutgers the past two years and is now the special assistant to head coach Greg Schiano.
After four years at Bucknell, where he was twice selected to the All-Patriot League team, he used his final year of collegiate eligibility at Maine.
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With the Black Bears he was named third-team All-CAA.
“P.J. has loved Rutgers football his entire life. Growing up so close to the campus, his family are season ticket holders. So taking the position in player development two weeks ago was a dream come true,” said Latish Kinsler, president of football operations for LifeStyle Sports Agency. The agency represents Barr.
“The decision to put his Rutgers coaching career on hold wasn’t easy but he knew that he couldn’t pass up the opportunity to play in the NFL. Also, the Rutgers staff has been extremely supportive of P.J. and this decision.”
If need be, Barr will be able to return to his role in player development following Steelers rookie minicamp. Talk about some serious Vince Papale vibes to this one.
Two Rutgers players were taken in last week’s NFL draft: wide receiver [autotag]Bo Melton[/autotag] (Seattle Seahawks, seventh round) and running back [autotag]Isiah Pacheco[/autotag] (Kansas City Chiefs, seventh round).
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In addition, several Rutgers football players were signed to undrafted rookie free agent deals or invited to rookie minicamps including linebacker Olakunle Fatukasi (Tampa Bay Buccaneers) and linebacker Tyreek Maddox-Williams (Los Angeles Chargers).