Former Philadelphia Eagles defensive end Derek Barnett (96) Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

Eagles former first-rounder wants out of Philadelphia, team doesn't want to trade him

By Vinny Somma | Last updated 8/29/23

After six years with the Philadelphia Eagles, Derek Barnett wants a fresh start.

According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, Barnett's agent, Drew Rosenhaus, is "gauging the market" for his client, seeking the potential for Barnett to earn more playing time elsewhere.

Fowler notes that the Eagles plan to retain Barnett but understand their depth at the edge rusher position limits Barnett's usage.

#Eagles DE Derek Barnett, through agent Drew Rosenhaus, is gauging the market for the potential to play more elsewhere, per sources. Philly plans to keep Barnett but understands a deep pass-rush roster limits playing time. The 2017 first-round pick should have trade value. pic.twitter.com/lq4KrNNFsC
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) August 28, 2023

The No. 14 overall selection in the 2017 NFL Draft, Barnett has appeared in 65 regular-season games (45 starts) with the Eagles. His most prolific season came in 2019 when the Tennessee product collected 6.5 sacks and 22 quarterback hits.

Barnett spent the majority of the 2022 season on injured reserve after suffering a torn ACL in Philadelphia's season opener against the Detroit Lions.

The Eagles pass-rush didn't miss a beat in Barnett's absence. Headlined by Second-Team All-Pro selection Haason Reddick, 14-year veteran Brandon Graham and one-time Pro Bowler Josh Sweat, Philadelphia's defense racked up an NFL-leading 70 sacks in 2022 — 15 more than any other team.

Despite the unit's prolific production, the Eagles opted to use their second first-round pick in 2023 on Georgia edge Nolan Smith, further clouding Barnett's placement in Philadelphia's rotation.

Reporter - You had some good rushes but, you kinda look mad at your self after that one?

Nolan Smith - they brought me here to Finnish plays not get close!! #Eagles pic.twitter.com/h6QFYoFvm7
— Philly Talk Podcast (@Philly_Mike25) August 18, 2023

While Barnett's presence in Philadelphia may feel unnecessary, a team can never have too many pass rushers, hence why the Eagles would like to keep him. With that said, Barnett and his 21.5 career sacks are bound to attract suitors on the trade market.

The Atlanta Falcons and Kansas City Chiefs are two teams that could benefit from Barnett's services. The former ranked 31st in team sacks last season with 21, while neither projected starter at outside linebacker (Bud Dupree nor Lorenzo Carter) has eclipsed five sacks in a single season since 2020.

The Chiefs released longtime starter Frank Clark back in March and are actively in a contract dispute with star defensive lineman Chris Jones, whose 15.5 sacks in 2022 tied for fourth-most in the NFL.

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