Khalif Barnes Seeking Turnaround with Jaguars

Khalif Barnes Seeking Turnaround with Jaguars
July 31, 2008 22:43 PM

By MARK LONG, AP Sports Writer

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) -- Jaguars left tackle Khalif Barnes is trying to polish him image and his game.

If he doesn't do both, the former second-round draft pick could be looking for another place to play.

Barnes, the 52nd selection in the 2005 draft, is competing with talented youngster Richard Collier for a starting spot. Given his off-field troubles, inconsistent play and contract status, Barnes realizes this could be his final chance to turn things around.

"It's kind of a big year," said Barnes, entering the final year of a four-year deal. "I would like to stay here, but that's not entirely up to me. Maybe I'll be here, maybe I won't. I don't know how exactly everybody's feeling about me staying here. Who knows?"

The Jaguars know they want more from the left tackle position. Although Barnes has looked solid at times, he's also been beaten for costly sacks, flagged for silly penalties and benched for poor play.

Even on Jacksonville's biggest play of the season -- David Garrard's 32-yard run on fourth down at Pittsburgh in the playoffs -- Barnes could have been called for holding James Harrison (the NFL acknowledged the missed call at the league meetings in March).

"I can't recall," Barnes said with a smile. "It's too long ago. I didn't see no flags. I don't remember all that. I don't remember too far back."

Despite the memory loss, Barnes dedicated the offseason to working on his speed, strength, timing and footwork -- essential tools at his position -- and vowed to be more consistent.

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