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Marion Barber News & Rumors

Bell in, Barber out vs. Packers
December 23
Chicago Tribune
 
"Running back Kahlil Bell is set to make just his second career start against the Bears' biggest rival. Veteran Marion Barber is expected to miss Sunday's game against the Packers in Green Bay with a calf injury, according to a league source. That leaves Bell as the primary ball carrier because Matt Forte still is sidelined with a sprained right knee. Coach Lovie Smith expressed confidence in Bell as the starter. "There are bigger concerns I have, and Kahlil is not one of them,'' Smith said Thursday. "I vividly remember his first carry he had at Soldier Field (a franchise-rookie record 72-yard run). I see him every day in practice going against our No. 1 defense."
Bears' Barber opens up about Hurd's arrest
December 19
Chicago Tribune
 
"Marion Barber was beyond the fumble. He was beyond the mental lapse of stepping out of bounds at Denver. The Bears running back had no desire to discuss the mistakes that made him the target of fans' frustrations last week. Barber did, however, open up about a couple of matters weighing heavily on his mind. He watched his close friend, former Bears receiver Sam Hurd, become a national headline Thursday after being arrested Wednesday night and charged with accepting a kilogram of cocaine from an undercover federal agent. Hurd, who was released after posting $100,000 cash bond, will appear in a Dallas federal court for arraignment and faces 40 years in prison."
Marion Barber breaks his silence, but won't elucidate on gaffes
December 16
Chicago Sun-Times
 
"Fumble? What fumble? Facing a $10,000 fine for violating the NFL's media policy, Bears running back Marion Barber reluctantly spoke to team-affiliated reporters at Halas Hall on Thursday. But he refused to address his crucial mistakes or anything related to his contribution to back-to-back losses that have crippled the Bears' once-rosy playoff hopes. Speaking to Larry Mayer of the Bears' website and Zach Zaidman of the Bears' broadcast team, Barber would only say that he is ''looking forward to this week … that's really what it's all about.''"
NFL likely to fine Barber if he doesn't speak to media
December 15
Chicago Tribune
 
"While the Bears remain optimistic about getting Matt Forte back on the field, possibly for Christmas, they have a different dilemma to address involving Marion Barber. An NFL official confirmed a letter was sent to Forte's replacement earlier this week notifying the seven-year veteran he has not been in compliance with the league's media relations policy. Barber did not address the media Sunday after the 13-10 overtime loss in Denver. He made two critical mistakes in the game, falling out of bounds late in regulation and fumbling in overtime."
Barber's touches may get trimmed
December 13
Chicago Tribune
 
"Bears running back Marion Barber had 29 touches during Sunday's overtime loss at Denver, and Kahlil Bell had 14. It's fair to wonder if that ratio will change against the Seahawks after Barber made costly mistakes on two of his touches — stepping out of bounds near the end of regulation, stopping the clock, and fumbling the ball in overtime. Those errors occurred just a week after Barber was whistled for illegal formation in a loss to Kansas City, wiping out his 4-yard touchdown catch. Remember, the coaches took a few carries away from Matt Forte in favor of Barber in Week 9 when Forte fumbled twice at Philadelphia."
Barber's mistakes set stage for Tebow's heroics
December 12
Chicago Tribune
 
"Seeing is believing. But neither Colorado's thin air nor the amazement over becoming a witness to a fun, American sports phenomenon prevents me from applying logic to an illogical 13-10 overtime Bears' loss Sunday to the Broncos. If Bears running back Marion Bartman, I mean Barber, doesn't run out of bounds to save the Broncos 35 seconds with two minutes left, Tim Tebow's time probably would have run out before he could lead a game-tying drive. If Barber doesn't lose a fumble at the Broncos' 33 in overtime with the offense one play away from a game-winning field goal, the Bears likely would have survived this Rocky Mountain adventure."
Knox, Barber break out
November 28
Chicago Tribune
 
"Johnny Knox atoned for his mistake. The Bears receiver had an obvious drop Sunday on a short screen pass. "I had a routine catch that I missed,'' Knox said. "That was all me.'' But Knox, who finished with four catches for a career-high 145 yards, also made a handful of plays look routine, including his 29-yard touchdown from Caleb Hanie. "That was my actual route,'' Knox said, noting it wasn't a hot read. "Zero cover, all-out blitz and the middle of the field (was) open.'' Hanie and Knox connected on an 81-yard pass play on third-and-16 from the Bears 10 late in the fourth quarter. It set up Hanie's 9-yard touchdown pass to tight end Kellen Davis. "I guess they thought we were going to run"
Barber's return should bolster running game
October 1
Chicago Tribune
 
"If Marion Barber was as elusive on the field as he is with the media, maybe his body wouldn't take such a beating. But the Bears running back won't alter his bruising style. It's how he made his name in the league. It's what made him attractive to the Bears coaching staff as a short-yardage back. "Well, we think he can start with that, in between the tackles,'' coach Lovie Smith said of Barber. "Just a good running back added to the mix. We're, of course, trying to get the running game going a little bit better. Having a guy like that should help in spot duty, so I know he is excited.'' Barber is set to make his Bears debut Sunday after straining his left calf muscle in the third"
Bears' Barber out again
September 16
Chicago Tribune
 
"The Bears figured Marion Barber would be back in the mix against the Saints. That won't be the case. Barber will miss his second consecutive game with a calf strain, according to a league source. Barber was held out of practice Thursday after returning to limited action Wednesday. He didn't re-injure the calf but felt some soreness after returning to practice. With Barber out, Kahlil Bell remains the backup behind starter Matt Forte. The two combined for 26 carries against the Falcons, with Forte carrying it 16 times to Bell's 10."
Barber expected back at practice Wednesday
September 13
Chicago Tribune
 
"Coach Lovie Smith talked Monday about the Bears needing to clean up some mistakes and improve in areas that didn't go well in their convincing 30-12 victory over the Falcons. The red zone will be one of the first places the Bears look for improvement as they prepare to face another loaded offensive team Sunday at New Orleans. The Bears struggled near the goal line last season, and help could be on the way. Running back Marion Barber, sidelined the last 17 days with a left calf muscle injury, is expected to return to practice Wednesday. Smith said "soon" when asked what the timetable is for Barber's return, and it's too early to predict Barber's status for the Saints."
Bears' Barber expected to return to practice
September 13
Chicago Tribune
 
"Coach Lovie Smith wouldn't come out specifically and say it, but indications are that Chicago Bears running back Marion Barber is expected to return to practice Wednesday. The backup running back has been sidelined since Aug. 27 preseason game at Tennessee with a left calf muscle injury. It's too soon to speculate on his status for Sunday's game at New Orleans, but a good week of practice could make that an easy decision for the team. Smith declined to shed any light Monday on the status of right guard Lance Louis and wide receiver Roy Williams. Louis suffered a sprained right ankle and left Soldier Field wearing a walking boot. The belief is he will not play against the Saints, leaving"
Barber confirmed out; Wootton unlikely to play
September 10
Chicago Tribune
 
"Chicago Bears running back Marion Barber was confirmed out for Sunday's regular-season opener against the Atlanta Falcons, and defensive end Corey Wootton is unlikely to play despite being listed as questionable on Friday's injury report."
Bears' Barber to miss opener
September 8
Chicago Tribune
 
"Jay Cutler will be without one of his new weapons Sunday when the Bears open the regular season against the Falcons. Running back Marion Barber will be held out with a calf muscle injury, according to a league source. Barber suffered the injury in the Aug. 27 exhibition at Tennessee and hasn't practiced since. Based on what offensive coordinator Mike Martz said about the running back, Barber could be missed. "He's just such a violent runner,'' Martz said. "He's a guy who can certainly jump cut and do all those things, but he'll take a defender on, too, and break tackles that way. He's kind of a complete back in that way.''"
Marion Barber brushes off tacklers, reporters
August 16
Chicago Sun-Times
 
"In his first public comments since signing with the Bears, running back Marion Barber didn't want to talk about his past. And he didn't want to talk much about the present or future. A player who long has preferred not to communicate with reporters, Barber — during a 75-second interview — focused on continuing to build on his reputation as one of the league's more bruising backs and helping the Bears win. "That's what I've been doing my whole career, so it's not going to stop now," Barber said of his punishing style, which he showcased on seven carries for 45 yards Saturday against the Buffalo Bills. "It's just all about playing football. I mean, fresh start — I'm just glad I'm here and"
Bears' Barber likes to let his running do the talking
August 16
Chicago Tribune
 
"As much as Marion Barber is known for running over defenders, he has just as much of a reputation for eluding the media. The Bears running back finally had his day in front of the cameras Monday, fresh off his solid 45-yard rushing effort in Saturday's exhibition win over the Bills. But Barber kept it short and to the point. How do you feel about the transition to Mike Martz's offense? "It feels good," he said. "Not really a big difference. It's good to be here." What did you want to accomplish coming into camp? "You know, I'm just here to play football," he said. "One thing you'll realize about me is I'll be ready at all times." Is the Bears' tradition of great running backs important to"
Bears have options with RBs Forte, Barber, Taylor
August 6
Chicago Tribune
 
"There has been plenty for Tim Spencer to evaluate in the first week of training camp but the Chicago Bears running backs coach is anxious to see much more. Starter Matt Forte showed up in such a good shape that Spencer's never seen him in before with a more chiseled frame. Newly signed Marion Barber practiced for the first time Thursday night and coach Lovie Smith credited him with setting the tone early in the workout with some tough inside running. Chester Taylor also got plenty of looks and the process is just beginning as the team sorts through the depth chart and considers possibilities. Spencer didn't do a lot of tape work on Barber prior to him arriving because he felt he had a good"
Barber sets physical tone in 1st Bears practice
August 5
Chicago Tribune
 
"While Roy Williams drew applause with every catch in his Bears practice debut Thursday night, another ex-Cowboy stole the show. During inside running drills, Marion Barber barreled through a pile of defenders that included fellow newcomer Vernon Gholston, then kept running and slapped away rookie safety Winston Venable. Barber nodded his head as if to tell the defense to bring some more. Coach Lovie Smith chuckled as Barber displayed his power. Smith said Barber's attacking style set the tone for the night. Defensive end Julius Peppers agreed. "I was impressed with him before what I saw tonight," Peppers said of Barber. "I'm happy to have him instead of trying to bring him down.""
Barber brings power — and questions — to Bears' backfield
August 1
Chicago Tribune
 
"The Bears' decision to move forward without Olin Kreutz wasn't the only move that left some players feeling rather edgy Sunday. A day after the team signed running back Marion Barber to a two-year, $5 million contract, one could hear the collective groan echoing through the rest of the Bears' backfield. Starter Matt Forte kept his emotions inside yet no doubt wondered why the Bears would commit money to another back before signing him to the extension general manager Jerry Angelo promised. Backup Chester Taylor said all the right things while understanding his chances of getting released greatly increased. Reserve Kahlil Bell, an exclusive-rights free agent unable to practice with the team"
Forte not worried that Barber signing will hurt new deal
July 31
Chicago Tribune
 
"The signing of Marion Barber is far from the assurance Matt Forte referred to when he addressed securing a contract extension. Forte reported to training camp Friday knowing a holdout would have an adverse effect on his quest to secure a new deal. Then, when Forte first faced the media at camp, he did so with every indication the organization would take care of him in time. "I kind of got my mind put to ease by (general manager Jerry Angelo). He had been in talks with my agent since the end of the lockout and even before that, and he kind of said that a deal would get done,'' Forte said. "He assured us repeatedly that a deal would get done. "Where I'm from and how I was raised, when"
Cowboys cut Williams, Barber, Davis to reach salary cap
July 27
Fort Worth Star-Telegram
 
"Roy Williams. Gone. Leonard Davis. Gone. Marion Barber. Gone. Kris Brown. Gone. Marc Colombo? The Dallas Cowboys made up for four months of inactivity with a flurry of moves Tuesday to clear salary cap space and remake the identity of their roster. They were roughly $18 million over the 2011 salary cap of $120 million when football officially reopened for business on Monday after the owners and players ended the lockout with a new collective bargaining agreement. The first order of business was to clear cap room so they could sign free agents, including left tackle Doug Free, who agreed to terms late Tuesday, and their draft picks. Cuts were expected to be made, but no one expected them to"
Cowboys release Marion Barber; Felix Jones now team's starting RB?
July 27
Dallas Morning News
 
"The Cowboys will cut running back Marion Barber when moves can become official, according to multiple Dallas Morning News sources. Barber played all six NFL seasons with the Cowboys, who drafted him out of Minnesota in the 4th round of the 2005 NFL Draft. He was slated to make $4.75 million this coming season. Dallas Morning News Cowboys reporter Brandon George reported Barber rolled into the parking lot at Valley Ranch shortly after 11:30 a.m. Tuesday to meet with owner Jerry Jones and team officials and was seen leaving the parking lot at about 12:10 p.m. What next for Barber? According to a report from ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Dolphins have interest in landing Barber."
Report: Marion Barber meets with Jerry Jones, cut by Cowboys
July 26
Dallas Morning News
 
"Cowboys running back Marion Barber rolled into the parking lot at Valley Ranch shortly after 11:30 a.m. today to meet with owner Jerry Jones and team officials and was seen leaving the parking lot at about 12:10 p.m. And if ESPN's Adam Schefter is correct, that meeting might have been Barber's last at the practice facility. Schefter tweeted Tuesday that the Cowboys are releasing Barber. Jones said this morning that he's making contact with each player the Cowboys plan to cut today so that they won't be at training camp when the team reports in San Antonio on Wednesday."
Drafting of Oklahoma running back likely will lead to Barber's release
April 30
San Antonio Express-News
 
"The Cowboys made injury plagued Oklahoma running back DeMarco Murray their third-round pick. The selection likely means the team will part ways with Marion Barber and split carries between Felix Jones and Tashard Choice. That means they need a running back who can play special teams, and Murray fits the bill. The downside, though, is that he was slowed by injuries every year of his career. Murray could prove to be a versatile performer for the Cowboys after catching 13 touchdown passes for the Sooners."
Cowboys' DeMarco Murray could spell the end for Marion Barber
April 30
Dallas Morning News
 
"With two draft picks Friday, the Cowboys changed the roles of insider linebacker Keith Brooking and running back Marion Barber. Brooking will "unequivocally" be on the club for a 14th NFL season, as an unofficial player-coach, Cowboys owner-general manager Jerry Jones said. Brooking will play and help prepare his replacement - North Carolina's Bruce Carter, whom the Cowboys selected in the second round, even though he is rehabilitating from major knee surgery. The Cowboys selected Oklahoma's DeMarco Murray in the third round with the intention of working him into the rotation at running back in place of Barber, who has a $4.25 million salary for next season. The club is expected to release"
Sources: Marion Barber's roster bonus dates confirmed
April 18
Foxsports.com
 
"Speculation has been running high that the Dallas Cowboys will release veteran RB Marion Barber once the new collective bargaining agreement is completed. The reason the team could ultimately decide to jettison Barber, who turns 28 in June, is because of his high salary for this coming season. Barber is listed with a $4.25 million base salary along with a $500,000 roster bonus. Various reports have this year's roster bonus due sometime in June. Sources confirmed to FOXSports.com that the date is actually June 3. If the new CBA isn't reached by June 3, they'll have until the new league year starts to make their decision, whenever that is. Barber, who is signed through 2014, also has a"
Garrett not happy with Barber, but moves on
December 28
Fort Worth Star-Telegram
 
"After two costly celebration penalties earlier in the season, it stands to reason that every member of the Cowboys would avoid showboating after a TD. But even though Marion Barber is a captain and is supposed to be setting an example for teammates, he was penalized for taking his helmet off after scoring a TD against Arizona on Saturday. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones and interim coach Jason Garrett made sharp comments after the game, and Garrett was still firm about the matter Monday. "One of the things we wanted to do was address it immediately," Garrett said. "He obviously made a heck of a good run. And he's a very emotional player, but you have to channel those emotions. He was excited"
Jason Garrett chides Marion Barber for 15-yard celebration penalty: 'It's not going to happen again'
December 27
Dallas Morning News
 
"Jon Kitna has been there this season when the Cowboys need him most. Expecting him to be there one more time may be too much to ask. A strained left oblique kept the quarterback on the sidelines for the second half of the team's loss to Arizona. The injury prevents Kitna from generating any sort of torque, a necessity for his position, and owner Jerry Jones has expressed pessimism that he will be able to return. Stephen McGee is on track for his first NFL start when the Cowboys face the Philadelphia Eagles in the final game of the regular season. Even if Kitna could take the field in a backup role, does the team really want to put the 38-year-old quarterback in that position? The answer"
Marion Barber says he's ready to play
December 23
Fort Worth Star-Telegram
 
"While Jason Garrett treats questions about possible game strategy as if they are threats to national security, running back Marion Barber is not so careful. Garrett, the Dallas Cowboys' interim head coach, said Wednesday that he wanted to see where Barber is in his rehabilitation from a groin injury, and if he's ready to go against the Arizona Cardinals on Christmas Day. Barber wasn't exactly expansive on the subject, but said that after missing three games, "I'm playing." Barber has had problems running all season. He has gained only 313 yards on 102 carries for an average of 3.1 yards a carry, and with two games left is almost certain to have a career-low in rushing yards and yards per"
Roy Williams, Marion Barber inactive
December 19
Dallas Morning News
 
"Cowboys wide receiver Roy Williams and running back Marion Barber are both inactive for today's game against the Washington Redskins. Williams popped up on the injury report earlier this week with a groin injury while Barber has not played since straining his left calf against New Orleans on Nov. 25. Williams, who has made 36 receptions for 524 yards and five touchdowns this season, was listed as inactive for the first time since he injured his ribs and missed the Cowboys' 20-13 overtime victory against the Kansas City Chiefs on Oct. 11, 2009."
Cowboys welcome Barber back to practice
December 16
San Antonio Express-News
 
"Dallas Cowboys starting running back Marion Barber returned to practice Wednesday after missing two weeks with a calf injury, and the club made several moves at receiver, including one involving former UTSA sprinter Teddy Williams. Interim coach Jason Garrett was noncommittal about Barber's status for Sunday's game against Washington after Barber had limited participation. "It was good to see him out there," Garrett said. "He's been working hard in his rehab, both in the training room and the weight room and with our rehab guys. He's been making some progress." Felix Jones started both games Barber missed. Barber's absence also meant an expanded role for third-stringer Tashard Choice, who"
Calf issue puts Barber out of Colts contest
December 4
San Antonio Express-News
 
"Dallas Cowboys running back Marion Barber will miss Sunday's game at Indianapolis with a calf injury, meaning third-stringer Tashard Choice could see his most extensive action of the season. Felix Jones will start in place of Barber, who didn't practice this week after suffering the injury in the Thanksgiving Day loss to New Orleans. The Cowboys promoted undrafted rookie running back Lonyae Miller from the practice squad Friday. To make room on the 53-man roster, Dallas placed rookie defensive end Sean Lissemore (ankle) on season-ending injured reserve. After rushing for at least 349 yards in each of his first two seasons, Choice hasn't had more than five carries in a game this"
Cowboys activate RB to take Barber's spot
December 3
Fort Worth Star-Telegram
 
"With running back Marion Barber expected to miss Sunday's game, and potentionally next week's game against the Eagles, Lonyae Miller will get his opportunity to dress out as the team's third running back. The Cowboys activated Miller from the practice squad, placing defensive end Sean Lissemore (ankle) on injured reserve. "Since I came here with the Dallas Cowboys [I've waited for this]," Miller said. "I never really wondered or anticipated. I just continued to work. It doesn't go unnoticed. The coaches are always watching. The owner is always watching. Somebody is always watching. Every day I go out and practice, I just treat it like a game and just take advantage of it, work on my"
Marion Barber likely out for matchup against Colts
November 30
Dallas Morning News
 
"Cowboys running back Marion Barber is likely to miss Sunday's game against Indianapolis with a strained calf muscle. Barber, injured in the second half of Dallas' loss to New Orleans last Thursday, did not practice Monday. His injury opens the door for the little-used Tashard Choice to get some action."
Ndamukong Suh says he apologized for tackle on Cowboys' Marion Barber
November 24
Detroit News
 
"Lions defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh took the high road when asked about the horse collar penalty he was tagged for during the fourth quarter of last weekend's loss to the Cowboys. The penalty - replays showed Suh briefly grabbed the hair of Cowboys running back Marion Barber - gave the Cowboys a first down at the Lions 5-yard line instead of a third down at the 11. "I mean his hair is long enough to go probably midway through his back, which is covering up his collar," Suh said. "If you go back on the replay, I just tugged it and then jumped on his back." Suh said he apologized to Barber about the play."
Barber won't comment on dress code fine
November 18
Fort Worth Star-Telegram
 
"Running back Marion Barber wouldn't confirm he has been fined for violating the team's new dress code. He also didn't deny it. A source said Monday that Barber was fined for not adhering to Jason Garrett's mandate that all players wear a coat, dress slacks and a tie for the team charter. Barber had on jeans and no tie when he left the locker room after Sunday's victory over the New York Giants. He declined to speak to the media after the game, and, on Wednesday, Barber wouldn't answer questions about whether he was fined. "I respect what you do," Barber said about reports of the fine. "Why would I cry about what you do? That's your job. That comes with the territory." Barber didn't start"
Marion Barber breaks his silence: Jason Garrett a 'positive change'
November 18
Dallas Morning News
 
"Marion Barber rarely speaks to the media. He opened up Wednesday. Sort of. The running back was fined earlier this week for violating the dress code instituted by interim coach Jason Garrett. Asked if those stories were accurate, Barber gave this response. "I respect what you do," he told a small group of reporters. "Why would I cry about what you do? That's your job. That comes with the territory." Does it bother him that the story was reported? "By no means, that's your job," he said. "Why would I get mad at what you guys do? I can respect that." You will notice Barber neither confirmed nor denied the fine. He was equally circumspect on the other questions he chose to answer in a session"
Marion Barber gets a dressing down
November 16
Fort Worth Star-Telegram
 
"Marion Barber was chosen by teammates to be one of the Dallas Cowboys captains this season. Barber is also one of the first Cowboys to be fined under the Jason Garrett regime. Garrett, the interim head coach, has installed a dress code for players on the road, which includes coats and ties. For the trip home after playing the New York Giants, Barber wore a shirt that was not tucked in, no tie, jeans and sneakers with no socks. According to two sources, Barber was fined an undisclosed amount, but Garrett would not confirm that and was, in fact, sensitive about the subject. "We lay out expectations for our players for all different kinds of behavior, and there will be consequences if they"
Garrett mum on Barber discipline
November 16
San Antonio Express-News
 
"Cowboys interim coach Jason Garrett made it clear Monday he won't make public disciplinary action he takes against players who violate team rules. The subject of whether Garrett would publicly call out players was a hot topic at Valley Ranch after running back Marion Barber violated a team rule that requires players to wear a sports coat, slacks, tie and dress shoes on flights to and from road games. Garrett declined to say whether Barber would be disciplined after he wore a sports coat, jeans and sneakers on the flight to and from New Jersey last weekend. "We lay out expectations for our players for all different kinds of behaviors," Garrett said. "There will be consequences if they don't"
Jason Garrett indicates Marion Barber will pay for dress code violation
November 16
Dallas Morning News
 
"Defiant running back Marion Barber will not get away scot-free for his violation of the Cowboys' new dress code, interim head coach Jason Garrett indicated Monday. Barber declined to follow Garrett's edict of sport coat, tie, slacks and dress shoes to be worn on all charter flights. Barber was in violation on the flight to Newark, N.J., for Sunday's game and on the trip home. After the win against the New York Giants, Garrett said Barber had not violated a team rule. A day later, Garrett swerved and declined on five occasions to exonerate Barber. "We lay out expectations for our players for all different kinds of behavior, '' Garrett said. "And there will be consequences if they don't"
Carries down, but Barber still has short-yardage mojo
October 21
Fort Worth Star-Telegram
 
"The trading deadline came and went, and despite some far-fetched rumors, Marion Barber still is part of the Dallas Cowboys. His carries might have diminished, but the Cowboys view his role as a big one.Barber, the starting running back in name only, has become the team's short-yardage and third-down back.Jones has 29 carries for 141 yards the past two games; Barber has 16 carries for 50 yards."I'm just ready to play, man," Barber said. "Whatever they want me to do, I'm going to do.... Carries were never an issue. It's just about winning these games. However they feel we can do that, we've got to do that."Barber had five short-yard opportunities in Sunday's 24-21 loss to the Minnesota"
Marion can talk
September 9
Fort Worth Star-Telegram
 
"Starting running back Marion Barber has been banged up the past two seasons. He says he's 100 percent now and ready to show what he can do when he's healthy. "It can be [frustrating being injured]," Barber said. "You've just got to be prepared and do whatever you do during the season and then the off-season, just work on some things, too." Barber reported to training camp at 218, lighter than he played last season when he was listed at 222. "Just eating better, and as you get older in the game, you realize that just taking care of your body," Barber said. Barber has never had a 1,000-yard season. He has rushed for more than 900 yards in two of his five seasons, including last year"
Cowboys RB Marion Barber is not involved in trade talks
September 4
Dallas Morning News
 
"The Cowboys traded Patrick Crayton and Pat McQuistin earlier today. That seemed to spark rumors that more would follow. Reports began to surface Friday evening that teams were talking to the Cowboys about running back Marion Barber. The team's response? Cowboys officials say there have been no substantive talks involving Barber. He is not close to being traded and the club isn't looking to move him"
RB Marion Barber looks sluggish; K David Buehler has perfect night
August 13
Dallas Morning News
 
"The Cowboys played their second exhibition game in five days Thursday, losing to Oakland, 17-9, at Cowboys Stadium. Now comes a period of practice and introspection. The Cowboys don't play again until Aug. 21 at San Diego . That gives coach Wade Phillips and his staff time to review what has gone right, what has gone wrong and what has no chance. These players are sure to come up during the review: In search of quickness, Barber lost weight in the off-season. He looks like the same plodding runner. Barber has handled the ball six times in exhibition play and produced only 13 yards. That hardly represents improvement from his showing in two postseason games last season: 18 yards on 11"
Barber might see time with Cowboys come to end
June 20
ESPN.com
 
"Tashard Choice chooses to be a good teammate who doesn't rant about role. That doesn't mean he's satisfied to be the third wheel in the Cowboys' running back rotation. Like any competitor, Choice wants to be a main cog. He' s proven to be more than capable when injuries to Marion Barber or Felix Jones forced the coaches to increase Choice's role. But Choice understands that, for the time being, his job is to serve as insurance while playing bit roles as the third-down back and Razorback trigger man. He gets that splitting carries three ways would make it difficult for any of the running backs to get in a rhythm, but that doesn't make standing on the sideline any easier. "It sucks," Choice"
Marion Barber's violent running style makes him an old 27
June 11
Dallas Morning News
 columnist Gerry Fraley
"Happy birthday, Marion Barber. Not that you wanted to be reminded. Barber turned 27 on Thursday. For an NFL running back, that's almost ancient. Of the league's top 20 for rushing yards last season, only four played at 27 or older. Or just look homeward to be reminded of the short lifespan of running backs. His father, Marion, gained only 8 yards after turning 27. The father was more of a blocking back during a seven-year career with the New York Jets. For a back coming off two consecutive inconsistent and injury-riddled seasons, a 27th birthday raises a question for the Cowboys. How much does Marion Barber have left? Barber, as is his custom, refused to comment, leaving it to others to"
Barber can't get it done for Cowboys
June 9
Fort Worth Star-Telegram
 
"Nobody wins the off-season like your Dallas Cowboys, always talking of how this is the year and how close they are, the hint of Super Bowl never far from any conversation.And 2010 may very well be that year. The Dez Bryant hype alone has many national types prematurely coronating.Just one tiny little niggling detail has been bothering me: If the Cowboys absolutely had to get a yard in say an NFC Championship Game, who do they give the ball to?Do not say Marion Barber, not with any degree of certainty.The reality of "The Barbarian" is not nearly as sexy as the hype we were sold when Owner Jones paid him all of that money before 2008. He has been slightly underwhelming when healthy, and"
Marion Barber played most of 2009 season with torn left quad
June 9
Dallas Morning News
 
"Cowboys starting running back Marion Barber played almost the entire 2009 season with a torn left quad, according to a report by ESPNDallas.com Barber suffered the injury the second game of last season, the report says. Cowboys running back coach Skip Peete told ESPNDallas.com that Barber "still has a hole in it," when referring to the injured quadriceps muscle. Despite the injury, Barber still lead the team in rushing yards (932) and missed just one game all season."
Cowboys' Barber to be choosier with running style
June 2
Fort Worth Star-Telegram
 
"Look for a leaner and smarter Marion Barber next season.The Dallas Cowboys running back has lost 10 pounds and is taking advice on how to pick and choose when to use his barbaric running style.Running backs coach Skip Peete said it should make Barber quicker, more durable and more productive."He has lost a noticeable 10 pounds," Peete said. "He is quicker now than he was last year at this time. He still has the ability to run with power. He has worked extremely hard this off-season."At age 27, Barber is not considered old. But his body has taken a pounding over the last few years because of his workload and running style.It is likely the reason behind some of the injuries he has had the"
Sources: Cowboys not shopping Barber
March 31
ESPN.com
 
"The speculation surrounding whether the Dallas Cowboys are shopping starting running back Marion Barber is just that. Multiple team sources said Tuesday that the Cowboys haven't discussed trading Barber, who is coming off two injury-filled seasons where he failed to rush for more than 1,000 yards. The NFL Network reported Monday that NFL executives have said Barber is available via trade."