Houston Texans Claim Philadelphia Eagles Veteran Derek Barnett Off Waivers
HOUSTON — The Houston Texans have made another change to their defensive line unit. Adam Schefter of ESPN was the first to report that the Texans have claimed defensive end Derek Barnett off waivers Monday afternoon.
Bernett is a 27-year-old defensive lineman who has spent his entire career with the Philadelphia Eagles. Barnett's release from the Eagles came nearly a month after the franchise failed to trade him at the deadline on Oct. 31.
Schefter added that the Texans were one of a handful of teams who considered trading for the veteran. Barnett was the No. 14 overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft and played a major role in Philadelphia's Super Bowl title in 2017.
Eagles defensive end Derek Barnett (96) in action against the New Orleans Saints at Lincoln Financial Field.
Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
The addition of Barnett will help the Texans' defensive front, which has had an up-and-down season of getting after the quarterback. Houston has registered 119 pressures amid their 6-5 record but has struggled to complete sacks. The Texans have recorded 78 quarterback hits but 39 sacks.
During Sunday's Week 12 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars, the Texans failed to record a pressure or a sack against quarterback Trevor Lawrence. Bernett's career in Philadelphia proves he embodies coach DeMeco Ryans' SWARM defensive mentality.
Barnett played in 72 games for the Eagles while posting 150 total tackles, 21.5 sacks, three forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, and four blocked kicks.
"It’s just about guys doing the little things and being on it," Ryans said. "Rushing together and not feeling like they’re out there by themselves and nobody pressing to try and make a play. Everybody is just doing what they are supposed to do, playing together and the sacks will come."
