Four rookies who will make an instant impact for the Eagles

4 rookies who will make an instant impact for the Eagles

Dec 28, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; West Virginia Mountaineers defensive back Rasul Douglas (13) breaks up a pass intended for Miami Hurricanes wide receiver Malcom Lewis (9) during the first half in the Russell Athletic Bowl at Camping World Stadium. The Miami Hurricanes defeated West Virginia Mountaineers 31-14. the Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-USA TODAY Sports /

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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 /

Derek Barnett, Defensive End

Coming out of Tennessee, the Eagles selected Derek Barnett with the No. 14 overall pick of the draft. After hundreds of mock drafts made their way around the internet, it didn’t seem like Barnett would drop to 14. On draft night when the Eagles were on the clock, many were shocked that they took Barnett. After some highlights of his play on the field made its rounds on the internet, many doubters turned to believers. Barnett is a great addition to a solid defensive line already sporting names like Fletcher Cox and Brandon Graham.

Questioned for his speed off the snap, Barnett is strong off the edge and has the ability to over power his blockers. According to PFF, he pressured the quarterback on 20 percent of his rushes. The average percent that edge rushers pressured quarterbacks was 10. With players like Vinny Curry and Marcus Smith struggling, Barnett has a legit shot at starting come September.

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