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NFL breakout candidates for the 2019 season

By Eric Robinson

CARSON, CA - DECEMBER 22: Derwin James #33 of the Los Angeles Chargers reacts to a broken pass play during the second half of a game against the Baltimore Ravens at StubHub Center on December 22, 2018 in Carson, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)
CARSON, CA - DECEMBER 22: Derwin James #33 of the Los Angeles Chargers reacts to a broken pass play during the second half of a game against the Baltimore Ravens at StubHub Center on December 22, 2018 in Carson, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images) /
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Philadelphia Eagles DE Derek Barnett

Stop me if you have heard this already but the Eagles defense (and team if we’re being honest) is loaded. Especially along the defensive line where the Eagles possess one of the best defensive linemen in all of football in Fletcher Cox along with an intriguing amount of pass rushers .

One of those pass rushers is a young 2017 first round draft pick that can stand out as the best of the bunch. In 2018, Derek Barnett was limited to just six games of action after a 5-sack, 16 quarterback hit-rookie campaign in 2017.

Barnett was also key down the stretch during the playoff run for the Eagles during his rookie season.

Barnett repaired the shoulder injury that ended his sophomore season prematurely. Now with a clean bill of health, Barnett will likely not be the focus of attention against opponents. That is based on sharing the field with Cox and veteran defensive linemen Brandon Graham and Malik Jackson.

Less attention means advantageous opportunities. Which means the talented Barnett could lead the team in sacks and elevate to a higher echelon of pass rushers in the league.

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