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<p>Mississippi State just added a key piece to their defensive future, as <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='328897' first='Kolby' last='Barrett']</strong>, a standout DB from <strong>Baylor School (TN)</strong>, has committed to the Bulldogs. With the physical tools to roam the field and the mindset to match, Barrett is bringing versatility, work ethic, and swagger to Starkville.</p>
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<p>“The biggest factor for me was the development,” Barrett said. “Coach Matt Barnes keeps it real, and he's going to push you — not just for college success, but to get to the NFL. That's the kind of coach I want to play for.”</p>
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<p>Barrett is a do-it-all defensive back, capable of playing middle field safety, sliding into the slot, or crashing the box. “I'm a versatile safety,” he said. “I can cover the middle of the field, step up into the box, or lock up a slot receiver. Wherever they need me, I'll make plays.”</p>
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<p>Bulldog fans can expect a competitor who embraces the moment — and the environment. “They're getting a ball player who's going to work,” he said. “I'm all in for the Cowbell atmosphere. I can't wait.”</p>
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<p>He's already started connecting with other Mississippi State commits, with plans to link up during official visits. “We're starting to build something,” he added.</p>
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<p>Barrett only needed one trip to Starkville to know it was different. But it was a visit from Coach Barnes to his school that sealed it. “He came to Baylor during the spring. He's tough on his players, but you can tell he wants the best for his guys. That meant a lot.” He plans to take his Official Visit there in June.</p>
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<p>When it comes to his on-field identity, Barrett is confident: “I'd give myself a 79 overall rating in NCAA” having ball hawk or agility as his main attribute. Dream NIL deal? “Private jet companies — one like those QBs are getting now.”</p>
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<p>And when it comes to that Ole Miss rivalry? Barrett doesn't hesitate:<br>“We're taking over the SIP. One of my old teammates [[player_tooltip player_id='1058887' first='Shekai' last='Mills-Knight']] already started talking — I told him, I'm ready. It's on.”</p>
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<p>[player_tooltip player_id='328897' first='Kolby' last='Barrett'] was already a name to know in Tennessee — a standout at Baylor School with the size, instincts, and versatility that made him a must-watch prospect. Now, he's headed to the SEC, where he's poised to make an even bigger name for himself on one of college football's biggest stages.</p>
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<p>With his ability to play multiple roles in the secondary, Barrett's game is built for the next level. He's no longer just a local standout — he's a rising star in a conference known for producing elite defensive backs.</p>
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Mississippi State just added a key piece to their defensive future, as Kolby BarrettKolbyBarrett
6'2" | 190 lbs | DB/LB Baylor | 2026StateTN, a standout DB from Baylor School (TN), has committed to the Bulldogs. With the physical tools to roam the field and the mindset to match, Barrett is bringing versatility, work ethic, and swagger to Starkville.