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2017 NFL Draft Pro Comparisons: The Edge Rushers

By Erik Lambert

Sep 24, 2016; Dallas, TX, USA; Texas A&M Aggies defensive lineman Myles Garrett (15) in game action against the Arkansas Razorbacks at AT&T Stadium. Texas A&M won 45-24. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 24, 2016; Dallas, TX, USA; Texas A&M Aggies defensive lineman Myles Garrett (15) in game action against the Arkansas Razorbacks at AT&T Stadium. Texas A&M won 45-24. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 8, 2016; College Station, TX, USA; Tennessee Volunteers defensive end Derek Barnett (9) rushes past Texas A&M Aggies offensive lineman Avery Gennesy (65) during the second half at Kyle Field. The Aggies defeat the Volunteers 45-38 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 8, 2016; College Station, TX, USA; Tennessee Volunteers defensive end Derek Barnett (9) rushes past Texas A&M Aggies offensive lineman Avery Gennesy (65) during the second half at Kyle Field. The Aggies defeat the Volunteers 45-38 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

Derek Barnett (Tennessee)

There are those pass rushers who have the flash plays that make people go “oooo” and “aaaah.” They tend to be the ones that get all the love. Then are those rusher who are just consistently good at their job. Week after week they find their way to the quarterback. This is Derek Barnett. He won’t wow with explosion or athleticism but the Vols defensive end is strong, quick and relentless in his pursuit of the football. That’s why stopping him is such a chore.

Comparison:  Cameron Wake

The same has been said of Miami Dolphins star Cameron Wake for years. He has never been mentioned enough among the names of top pass rushers in the NFL even though he is one. Playing for some bad teams has had much to do with it. Barnett shares a similar style and body type with him, along with that steady aggression that never seems to relent. Even into his 30s Wake is difficult to block. He plays with a chip on his shoulder. So does Barnett.

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