Leading up to the 2017 NFL Draft, we'll take a closer look at 16 players mocked to the Ravens at pick No. 16.
Size: 6-foot-3, 259 pounds
2016 Stats: 56 tackles, 19 tackles for loss, 13 sacks, one interception, two forced fumbles
Career Stats: 198 tackles, 52 tackles for loss, 32 sacks, one interception, three forced fumbles
40-yard dash: 4.88 seconds
Vertical jump: 31 inches
Broad jump: 117 inches
3-cone drill: 6.96 seconds
Background: Barnett is one of the most productive pass rushers to come out of the SEC in a long time. There’s a lot of talent in the SEC when it comes to defensive linemen and pass rushers. Despite top competition, Barnett made the all-conference team all three years he played. He was the first freshman to ever start on Tennessee’s defensive line and notched an SEC-high 20.5 tackles for loss and 10 sacks.
Strengths: “Championship hand fighter on college level. Hands are strong, fast, efficient and lethal. Punch-and-discard winner. As rusher, swats are well-timed discarding tackle's punch attempt. Attacks the edge with good forward lean and works hands and feet in harmony on road to the quarterback. Uses jab steps and lateral movement to search for the edge of the blocker. Has leverage and strength to play right through redirects. Elite production on par with former Vol and Hall of Famer Reggie White against run and as sack artist. Not content to just set the edge -- wants to make the play. Uses hand fighting and play strength to work through leverage points. Long strider who can crash down the line to challenge gap plays if unblocked. Punishing hitter. Delivers crushing tackles and sacks when given the opportunity. Hustle player who pursues the play with intent. Rag-dolls tight ends at point of attack. Plus field awareness recognizing play-action, reverses, and screens. Fluid enough to drop into space and play some zone.” – Lance Zierlein, NFL Media
Weaknesses: “Can bend off the edge with his flexibility, but lacks explosive twitch to win the corner on athleticism alone. Initial quickness based more on timing than burst, leading to offsides penalties or late movements out of his stance when he misreads the snap. Pass rush repertoire lacks variety and hand usage mid-rush still a work-in-progress. Aggressive play style will lead to missed tackles in the open field. Needs to improve his break down skills. Tight-hipped in space and has limited potential as a stand-up player.” – Dane Brugler, CBS Sports
