Meet New York Jets’ DT T.J. Barnes

Aug 28, 2014; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles running back

(41) is tackled by New York Jets linebacker

(54), defensive back

(45), defensive tackle

(92) and defensive tackle T.J. Barnes (99) during the first quarter at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports

Tonight, we are going to talk about a young Jets’ defender that fought his way onto the 53 man roster. It takes a lot to make the Jets’ defensive line rotation, because as we all know, they are a deep bunch. It’s a testament to his hard work and play on the field that this young man is still with the Jets. I am talking about second year defensive tackle, T.J. Barnes.

Born in Montgomery, Alabama, T.J Barnes was actually an offensive tackle in high school. While playing at Enterprise High School, Barnes was ranked as the 48th best offensive tackle prospect, and the 18th best prep prospect in Alabama. He went to Georgia Tech to play in college.  Here are Barnes’ stats while at Georgia Tech:

Defense & Fumbles

.

More from Jets News

• NY Jets should target TE Hunter Henry in free agency
• NY Jets: Why the team should target cornerback Shaquill Griffin
• NY Jets reportedly non-tendering linebacker Harvey Langi
• NY Jets: Why the team should not cut Jamison Crowder
• NY Jets should try to sign Kenny Golladay in free agency

Barnes was selected to the All-ACC freshman team in 2009, and earned honorable mention in 2012 for All-ACC.

Per his draft profile, Barnes weighed in at the NFL Combine at 369 pounds, standing at 6’6″. His performance in the drills were not outstanding, and he went undrafted. A brief stint with the Jaguars brought Barnes to the Jets’ practice squad, and now to the current roster.

In the preseason, Barnes posted one sack, and seven combined tackles. As far as playing time goes, he isn’t likely to see a great deal of time behind Damon Harrison and Kenrick Ellis. But, Barnes showed the world he can play, and can spell the front line players for a few plays, and would be an able-bodied replacement if something were to happen to Harrison, Ellis, or anyone else.

Good luck to T.J. Barnes in 2014.