Eagles get pass-rush help with Derek Barnett

The Philadelphia Eagles selected defensive end Derek Barnett out of Tennessee with the 14th overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft.

Barnett makes the jump to the NFL on the heels of an incredibly productive career at Tennessee, where he set the all-time SEC sack record with a career total of 32.

Along with the cornerback position, adding to talent to the defensive front was thought by many to be among Philadelphia's most glaring needs.

Barnett slides into the pass-rush rotation, potentially starting opposite Brandon Graham, and will be expected to play a key role in Jim Schwartz's attacking front four.

Derek Barnett Bio

Position: DE
School: Tennessee
College Experience: Junior
Height: 6-3
Weight: 259 lbs.

Strengths

• Consistent producer. Made at least nine sacks in all three college seasons and 52 total tackles for a loss, including 20.5 as a freshman.
• Hands. Used superior hand-fighting skills to out-duel blockers regularly with every technique conceivable.
• Relentless. Wants to make the tackle on every play. Shows high motor and inability to give up on a play.
• Toughness. Battled through illness at combine and injury at pro day, opting not to take the easy road out.

Weaknesses

• Change of direction. Struggles chasing down quarterbacks with good feet, can get caught out of position on misdirection run plays.
• Footwork. Doesn't have quick feet, relies heavily on upper body to beat linemen.
• Burst. Not very explosive coming off the line. Rarely beats blockers with speed alone.

Combine Results*

*Fought through illness during combine