Noah Barnes looks to give Maryland football another big-bodied receiving option

Profiles in Terpage is back for 2017. Last week, we focused on wide receivers; this week, we’re looking at all of Maryland’s tight ends.

Noah Barnes, TE, No. 80

Height: 6’4
Weight: 226 lbs.
Year: Redshirt freshman
Hometown: Auburn, Alabama
High School: Auburn High School

How he got to College Park

He committed to Maryland after originally choosing Memphis, but staff turnover saw him land in College Park a couple weeks before signing day. He came out of high school carrying a composite two-star rating and was the No. 83 player in his class from Alabama, per 247 Sports.

With a number of tight ends ahead of him on last season’s depth chart, Barnes took a redshirt year and will look to contribute in his freshman year redux.

2017 Prospectus

We’re still not exactly sure to what extent tight ends will have a receiving role in the offense, but Barnes will see the field if he can prove himself as a blocker. At 6’4, he’s as tall as some linemen, and could be used as an extension of Maryland’s offensive line to pave the way for its talented backfield. If Walt Bell chooses to expand his use of tight ends as pass catchers, he could at least serve as an option down the seam or as a big redzone target.

Dream season

Barnes works his way up the depth chart in summer and fall camp, impressing coaches with his blocking and makes the most of his looks early in the season. He’s consistently used as a blocker on running downs and sneaks down the seam on play action to pick up clutch first downs all season, and perhaps even scores a few touchdowns.

Up next

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