Barnes moved to inside linebacker

COLUMBIA -- Former Sikeston Bulldog all-state football player Brandon Barnes, now a senior with the Missouri Tigers, has moved from free safety to inside linebacker.

In Missouri's spring press conference, Tiger head coach Gary Pinkel explained the switch.

"We've tried to find Brandon the right spot and we think he'll fit in at linebacker nicely," said Pinkel. "He's 225, runs a 4.5 forty, and he's very physical."

Barnes, who started six games last season, finished eighth on the team with 53 tackles last year while splitting time with sophomore Marcus King.

Barnes began his college career as a wide receiver where he caught one pass for 16 yards against Clemson on national television. Minutes later, Barnes suffered a season-ending injury.

Barnes had an interception last year with two fumble recoveries and two fumbles caused. He graduated from Sikeston High School in 1999.