Former Eagles First-Round Pick Seen as a Failure, Looking for Final Season with Eagles Before Retirement👇

Derek Barnett, the Philadelphia Eagles’ 2017 first-round draft pick, is facing a pivotal moment in his career as he aims to return to the team for what could be his final NFL season before retirement. Once hailed as a promising edge rusher, Barnett has been branded a bust by some analysts and fans, with his tenure marked by injuries, inconsistency, and unmet expectations. Now, at 29, he’s determined to end his career on a high note with the Eagles, per reports from ESPN and posts on X.

Selected 14th overall out of Tennessee, Barnett was expected to anchor Philly’s defensive line alongside Fletcher Cox. His rookie season showed promise, with 5 sacks and a crucial fumble recovery in Super Bowl LII, helping the Eagles secure their first championship. However, his production stalled in subsequent years due to a series of injuries, including a torn ACL in 2022 that sidelined him for an entire season. Over seven seasons with the Eagles (2017-2023), Barnett amassed 21.5 sacks in 85 games, a modest output for a first-round pick.

After being released by Philadelphia in 2023, Barnett bounced between the Houston Texans and Atlanta Falcons in 2024, recording 3.5 sacks in a reserve role. His struggles to reclaim his early-career form led to harsh criticism on X, with users like @PhillyFanatic labeling him “a wasted pick” and @EaglesNation tweeting, “Barnett never lived up to the hype.” Analysts point to his injury history and inability to develop a consistent pass-rush repertoire as reasons for his underwhelming career.

Despite the setbacks, Barnett is reportedly in talks with the Eagles for a one-year, veteran-minimum deal to return in 2025, according to NBC Sports Philadelphia. The move would give him a chance to redeem himself in the city where his NFL journey began. “Derek wants to finish what he started in Philly,” a source close to the player told ESPN. “He knows he hasn’t met expectations, but he believes he can still contribute.”

Head coach Nick Sirianni expressed openness to Barnett’s return, saying, “Derek’s a fighter with a lot of heart. He knows our system and could add depth.” The Eagles’ defensive line, led by Haason Reddick and Josh Sweat, has been a strength, but injuries to rotational players like Brandon Graham in 2024 exposed depth issues. Barnett’s familiarity with the team and his relentless motor could make him a low-risk addition.

Fans on X are divided. “Give Barnett a shot! He was part of our Super Bowl run,” posted @FlyEaglesFly. Others, like @Birds4Life, remain skeptical: “Why bring back a bust? We need fresh talent.” Barnett addressed the criticism on X, writing, “I’ve got one more chapter to write in Philly. I’m not done yet. #Eagles.”

Now a motivational speaker and youth football coach in his offseason, Barnett draws inspiration from his Super Bowl LII triumph. “Philly taught me resilience,” he said at a recent community event, per the Philadelphia Inquirer. “This city doesn’t give up, and neither do I.” His story echoes the Eagles’ underdog ethos, where redemption is always within reach.

As the Eagles prepare for a 2025 Super Bowl push, Barnett’s potential return could be a feel-good story—or a final chance to prove his detractors wrong. Stay tuned to NFL Network and ESPN for updates on his comeback bid and Philadelphia’s roster moves.