A converted receiver who became one of Syracuse's most productive tacklers before landing with Dallas as an undrafted rookie.
Justin Barron's college career took an unusual path, starting at wide receiver before he found his footing as a hybrid safety-linebacker for Syracuse. After going undrafted in 2025, he stuck with the Cowboys through a full year on the practice squad and earned a spot on the active roster to open 2026.
Path to the league
Barron played five seasons at Syracuse from 2020 to 2024, transitioning from receiver to defensive back to linebacker along the way. He finished his college career with 294 tackles and was named the 2024 Walter Camp Connecticut Player of the Year before going undrafted in the 2025 NFL Draft and signing with the Dallas Cowboys.
Career highlights
Barron's tackle production climbed every year at Syracuse, peaking with a 90-tackle season in 2023 that included five tackles for loss, seven pass deflections, an interception and three forced fumbles. His length and coverage instincts, carried over from his safety background, made him a versatile chess piece on defense.
2025 season recap
Barron spent his rookie season on the Cowboys' practice squad after signing as an undrafted free agent, developing behind Dallas' linebacker corps before being promoted to the active roster on January 3, 2026.
Sources
- Wikipedia: Justin Barron (American football)
- ESPN: Justin Barron
Player Profile
Background
- Position
- Linebacker
- Group
- defense
- College
- Syracuse
- Hometown
- Rocky Hill, CT, USA
- Age
- 24
- Status
- active
