Eagles expect Derek Barnett to build off of recent production
Rookie Derek Barnett is starting to take advantage of opportunities.
In the Philadelphia Eagles 34-24 victory over the Washington Redskins, the 2017 first-rounder Derek Barnett was fantastic! The Tennessee Volunteers all-time sack leader recorded 2 sacks and 3 tackles against a solid Redskins offensive line. In his previous outing against the Carolina Panthers, Barnett picked up his first NFL sack of his career. He is certainly starting to hit his stride in the Eagles dominant defensive line system.
As a result of his recent success, Eagles fans should anticipate Barnett to get more opportunities.
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Surpassing Curry?
Barnett has clearly outplayed starter Vinny Curry in recent weeks. Defensive Coordinator Jim Schwartz, might want to consider starting the hot hand in Barnett. Curry has only recorded just one sack on the season. He clearly isn’t living up to the five-year $47.25 million contract he signed a season ago. Not only should Curry worry about losing his starting role, but he could be cut next season. The Eagles will not be able to save money by cutting him this season. According to Spotrac, the Eagles can save $5 million by releasing Curry in 2018. Given Barnett’s potential, Curry’s days as an Eagle could be numbered.
Thriving in a rotation.
While Barnett should see more playing time, he will still be rotating with other defensive linemen. This is still a good thing for Barnett. He will be fresh and not have to worry about fatigue. He gets more snaps while being in a system that will not burn him out. Due to Jordan Hicks out with a ruptured Achilles tendon, expect Schwartz to put his best defensive line group on the field to help out the injured linebacker unit.
Derek Barnett is going to be a great talent for the Philadelphia Eagles for many years to come. Executive vice president of football operations Howie Roseman, certainly made the right the choice in taking the former Volunteer with the fourteenth pick of the 2017 NFL Draft. His natural pass rushing ability as well as pursuit instincts are second to none. Now could be the time where he truly shows his talent.