DE Brad Bars Signs With The New York Giants

Another former Nittany Lion is making his NFL dream a reality, as defensive end Brad Bars signed a rookie deal with the New York Giants on Sunday — just in time for training camp.

Though Bars went undrafted in May’s NFL Draft, he enters a very favorable defensive scheme with the Giants under Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo, who will operate a traditional 4-3 defense in New York.

Bars — who played under three different head coaches during his time at Penn State — never developed into an every-down starter, but became an integral part of the team’s pass rush as a situational rusher, while adding extra value to his game as a frequent contributor on special teams.

He was able to play in 2014 as a graduate student after rupturing his Achilles in July of 2013, and became a bit of a sensation after taking a direct snap for a long first down pick up against Illinois.

The odds are stacked against Bars, given his status as an undrafted free agent, along with the number of notable pass rushers on New York’s roster.

Though there is some uncertainty surrounding the status of defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul — who had a finger amputated after a Fourth of July mishap — he is expected to be back in his role as the team’s defensive centerpiece. Damontre Moore, George Selvie, and Robert Ayers — all seasoned veterans — take priority on the roster given their individual skillsets and past experience, meaning Bars will face an uphill climb in his pursuit of making the 53-man roster.

Regardless of the difficulty, an opportunity is an opportunity. At 6-3, 263 pounds, Bars fits the mold of what the Giants are looking for in a defensive end. Hopefully Bars makes the most of it and defies the odds with a strong showing in training camp.