Fansided
Fansided

Cowboys secondary fixed? Key NFC East offseason questions

By Eric Robinson

Jan 1, 2017; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz (11) and Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) meet on the field after a game at Lincoln Financial Field. The Philadelphia Eagles won 27-13. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 1, 2017; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz (11) and Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) meet on the field after a game at Lincoln Financial Field. The Philadelphia Eagles won 27-13. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
3 of 5
Next
Oct 8, 2016; College Station, TX, USA; Tennessee Volunteers defensive end Derek Barnett (9) in action during the game against the Texas A&M Aggies 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) in action during the game against the Texas A&M Aggies at Kyle Field. The Aggies defeat the Volunteers 45-38 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

Philadelphia Eagles: Can Derek Barnett be relied on in year one?

As the 14th overall selection in this year’s draft, the Eagles took what they hope is their next difference maker at defensive end. Barnett’s production out of the University of Tennessee was impossible to ignore. The pass rusher racked up 198 tackles, 52 tackles for loss, and 33 sacks in just three seasons in Knoxville. Barnett broke the school-record for total sacks which was once held by the legendary Reggie White.

It remains to be seen how effective Barnett will be at the NFL-level but one thing is for sure, the Eagles will be looking for Barnett to make his presence felt this season. The team signed veteran Chris Long to help out and still list undersized defensive end Brandon Graham as the starter. However, at this stage, Long is more of a placeholder until Barnett is truly ready.

There is no question Barnett has the talent. Expectations are sufficiently in place for Barnett. With the Eagles passionate fan base, Barnett needs to progress considerably over the course of the season.

Home/NFL News