2017 NFL Draft Big Board: Ranking the top 32 prospects

Dec 5, 2015; Charlotte, NC, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) looks to pass the ball during the second quarter against the North Carolina Tar Heels in the ACC football championship game at Bank of America Stadium. Clemson defeated North Carolina 45-37. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports /

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Jan 1, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Northwestern Wildcats running back Justin Jackson (21) runs the ball against Tennessee Volunteers defensive back Derek Barnett (9) in the second half at the 2016 Outback Bowl at Raymond James Stadium. Tennessee defeated Northwestern 45-6. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports /

Derek Barnett was my pick to win the SEC Defensive Player of the Year last year, but I may have been a year early with that bold prediction.

The Tennessee Volunteers unearthed a gem when they picked up the in-state product two years ago but as he enters his junior year he’s no longer a secret across the SEC or college football.

Barnett is a bigger defensive end who is stout against the run but also brings double-digit sack production to the lineup.

An easy comparison of Barnett could be to former Clemson defensive end Shaq Lawson who played int he 270-pound range and led the nation in tackles for loss. He was taken with the No. 19 pick in this year’s draft, but I think Barnett comes off the board well before the late-teens.

Next: Cam Robinson

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