Albert Barnes Commentary Matthew 27:16

"And they had then a notable prisoner, called Barabbas." — Matthew 27:16 (ASV)

A notable prisoner. The word notable means one that is distinguished in any way, either for great virtues, or great crimes. In this context, it evidently means the latter. He was perhaps a leader of a band who had been guilty of sedition, and had committed murder in an insurrection (Luke 23:19).