A Derek Barnett Breakout Season Is Imminent
Drafted 14th overall in 2017, Derek Barnett has done well in the limited role he’s been given. Despite starting 0 games his rookie season, Barnett still managed to total 5.0 sacks, 21 tackles which included 8 for loss, 16 QB hits, and a forced fumble.
He finished 3rd on the Eagles in sacks, tackles for loss, and QB hits. In the post-season, Barnett added another sack and forced a fumble to his tally, as well as secured the game-winning fumble recovery in the Super Bowl. He was eventually named to the Pro Football Writers Association (PFWA) all-rookie team.
On his way to improve upon his impressive rookie year, Barnett’s sophomore season was cut short due to a shoulder injury in week 7. Still, Barnett finished with 2.5 sacks, 15 tackles which included 5 for loss, and 11 QB hits. At the time of his injury, Barnett ranked 3rd in sacks on the Eagles. He came up clutch in week 3, sacking Andrew Luck on 4th down in the red zone, which would end up sealing a win.
Barnett has looked sharp thus far in training camp and is expected to have a big season this year. Despite the loaded defensive front, Barnett is talented enough to achieve a 10-plus sack season.
With Chris Long retiring in the offseason, Barnett will be placed in a full-time starting role, which will allow him to truly shine. He was able to break Reggie White’s sack record at Tennessee, and he’ll be looking to have the same level of success in the NFL.
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