Kalon Barnes, a speedy cornerback, concluded the 2023 season with the Cleveland Browns, albeit largely under the radar as he was signed to the practice squad after Week 18. While he didn’t have the opportunity to play in the Wild-Card game, his tenure with the Browns classifies him as a former member of the team. Now back with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Barnes shared insights on the rivalry between the two teams during an interview with Steelers Takeaways via Twitter.
Reflecting on his playoff preparation week with Jim Schwartz, Barnes formed an impression of the Browns, noting both teams’ discipline. He recounted a message from Steelers coach Mike Tomlin before their Week 2 clash, emphasizing the intensity of the rivalry: “We [don’t] like them. They [don’t] like us. But we’ll play our game.”
EXCLUSIVE: @Steelers CB Kalon Barnes on his speed, running track, #Browns–#steelers rivalry and more:
"That's kind of what I have been working on this offseason. Controlling my speed. I am learning that I don't have to run full speed all of the time. I used to go too fast… pic.twitter.com/37cXd4jFHv
— Steelers Takeaways 🌗 (@PittsburghSport) April 1, 2024
Pittsburgh’s defensive strategy aimed at containing Cleveland’s running game, particularly emphasizing the importance of limiting Nick Chubb to under 100 yards. Unfortunately for the Browns, Chubb’s performance was cut short due to a hard hit from Minkah Fitzpatrick, resulting in his season-ending injury. This setback seemed to have a lasting impact on Cleveland’s offensive rhythm and morale throughout the challenging loss.
Having signed a futures reserve contract for the 2024 season with the Steelers, Barnes is embarking on his second stint with the team. Notably, he transitioned from wide receiver to cornerback during his college career at Baylor and garnered attention for his exceptional speed, clocking in at a record-setting 4.23 seconds in the 40-yard dash at the Scouting Combine, a feat that remains unmatched among defensive backs in Combine history.
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