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Derek Barnett Named FWAA Freshman All-American

By Randy Sharber

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The Football Writers Association of America has named Tennessee Volunteer Freshman Defensive End Derek Barnett to the 2014 Freshman All-American team. This is quite an honor for the young man out of Brentwood Academy.

Barnett was joined by fellow SEC freshman RB Nick Chubb of Georgia, RB Leonard Fournette of LSU, and OL Cam Robinson and P JK Scott of Alabama on the prestigious team.

Derek had one of the best season’s for a defensive end in Tennessee history this year. His 73 total tackles which included 10 sacks, and 20.5 tackles for loss, sets Barnett up nicely to be compared to the best to wear a Volunteer uniform. Many are drawing comparisons to Vol fan favorite and long time NFL Superstar Reggie White. He has a bit of work to do yet to get to that status.

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    • Barnett’s quick first step, core strength, and determination has been a bit of a surprise this season. He did what he had to do to make Tennessee’s defensive line successful. This was a group that was not highly thought of before the season started, but was absolutely solid all season long for the Vols.

    Barnett has also been named to the All SEC Freshman team, Grantland’s National Rookie of the Year, and ESPN’s All Freshman team as well. Fellow Vol and former MBA star Jashon Robertson was also named to the ESPN All Freshman Squad.

    Offenses will have a tough time again next season with Barnett. The addition of tackles Khalil McKenzie and Shy Tuttle will rule out any double teams I would think. The Vols will also be able to give him a little rest as a bevy of good defensive ends such as Kyle Phillips, Marques Ford, and Andrew Butcher will add much needed depth to the position. Imagine a rested Barnett taking on an Offensive Tackle. The opposing quarterback will not want that image in his head, and definitely not seeing him coming off of the edge. It is going to be fun to watch.

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