Karsen Barnhart set to sign with Los Angeles Chargers
Michigan offensive guard Karsen Barnhart had to wait a while, but he learned Saturday he’s NFL-bound, too. Barnhart is signing with Jim Harbaugh and the Los Angeles Chargers, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Barnhart showed his versatility in his five years at Michigan, playing several different positions on the line. He played mostly at right tackle, and while most believe he’s a guard at the next level, he more than held his own. He appeared in 41 games with 29 starts across the offensive line in his career — the only position on the line he hasn’t played is center — and he started nine games at left tackle, two at left guard, one at right guard and 17 at right tackle.
“It’s been awesome. Getting able to play three different positions this year, it’s been great,” Barnhart said, adding “the starting five” was his favorite of the bunch.”
And he was there plenty. No matter where he ends up, he said, a team is going to get his best. He proved that in his years in Ann Arbor.
“I’m comfortable both with left and right,” Barnhart said. “… It doesn’t really change my mindset, just playing next to a different guy and I love it. … It’s important to be versatile in the long run, and also for injuries and things of that nature.”
He’ll always have a fan in Jim Harbaugh. The coach said last year he was a fan of all the Barnharts.
“Super impressed. He’s a trusted agent and known friend. Selfless player,” Harbaugh said of Barnhart. “He does everything for the team. He’s always locked in and pulling his weight. You can go back— it’s no surprise. He is who he is. Jenny and Jeff Barnhart, nobody works like Jeff Barnhart. Six, seven days a week operating the big machines. That guy, he’s like a hero to me.”
