Jim Barrie’s Career Coming to an End; The Bull Gator Weeps

I went to a very small high school. So small that during my time there players didn’t necessarily play both ways because of talent; they did so out of necessity. There weren’t enough members of the football team to field a full two-deep. But over the years, the team had its moments and the occasional star player.

However, none of those players ever went on to big-time college football glory. There were a number that would play in the lower divisions, but the Oklahomas and USCs of the world didn’t come calling. That is until Jim Barrie.

Barrie was a 4-star recruit and part of the Rivals250. The site rated him as the 15th-best offensive tackle in the entire nation. Coming from a Florida family, Barrie always wanted to be a Gator. He came to Gainesville as part of the celebrated 2006 class which included Percy Harvin, Brandon Spikes, and, of course, Tim Tebow. Despite never getting much of a chance to see the field (Barrie only appeared in one game during his career), he was one of those kids you cheered for. Barrie grew up a Gator fan and was proud to be part of the Florida program.

Sadly, it looks like Barrie’s football career will now come to an end. A major knee injury he suffered never seemed to heal correctly and doctors may recommend he discontinue playing. After the news about Paul Wilson, this has been a tough few weeks for a few of the Gators. I’m sure everyone wishes both of them the best of luck.

Urban Meyer has said Barrie may stay with the program and serve as a student-assistant coach.