Name: Phil Barbar
School: Florida Atlantic University/Wheaton College
Position: LS
Height: 5-10
Weight: 225

Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season? 

As a grad transfer, I set goals to win the snapping job at FAU, become a top long snapper in the country, and help the team win in any way I can. Unfortunately, I did not win the snapping job in my lone season at FAU. However, I was able to earn a starting spot as a holder on our team. I was not able to see the fruit of my labor during the season, but was able to compete against many top snappers at senior combines this off-season. In my true senior year at Wheaton, our unit produced an all-conference punter and kicker (snappers not recognized in DIII). We also set various school records in both our punt and field goal units. While my final collegiate season wasn’t as successful on the field, but I learned valuable lessons that made me a better long snapper, teammate, and man.

Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?

I believe my coaches would describe me as a meticulous hard worker who is never satisfied and will give anything for my team. I believe my teammates would describe me as someone who cared about them off the field first and foremost, worked hard, and pushed them to be the best they could be both in and off the field.

Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?

I am always looking for ways to improve my efficiency as a long snapper. I have worked with Kyle Stelter at Special Teams U to refine how I watch film and improve my form. Consistency is the name of the game for snappers and I always focus on the causes of any variance in my snaps.

Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position? 

I played at Wheaton College for 5 years in a pro scheme where I was responsible for blocking on every punt. After 6 years of college football, I have experienced every mental high and low and am able to maintain a consistent mindset day in and day out. Because I also have starting experience as a holder, I understand both sides of a field goal operation. I believe this gives me a significant advantage over my peers.

Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?

I am currently training at the first-class facilities at Florida Atlantic with my strength coach, Joey Guarascio. I am training alongside numerous NFL athletes down with Coach Joey G. I am snapping consistently with former University of Miami punter, Lou Hedley as we both pursue professional opportunities.

Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?

I will bring consistency, dedication, and a tenacious mindset to any team that brings me in. I am devoted to being the best I can be and giving all I have to the team. I will do whatever I can to contribute to the team’s success and to make the men around me the best they can be.

Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?

I’ve been an underdog my whole life. While my measurables and career path are not the most conventional, I am great at what I do. I believe I can both snap and block with the best in the business. On top of this, I will be a teammate that players and coaches can count on 24/7. I look forward to being able to contribute to an organization by playing the game that I love.