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Derrick Barnes becomes Purdue’s highest-drafted LB in over a decade
By Rolando Rosa
Published:
When Derrick Barnes went off the board in the 2021 NFL Draft, it was even more impressive because of the context.
The Detroit Lions traded up to select the Purdue linebacker in the fourth round, with the No. 113 overall pick. Barnes is the highest-drafted Purdue linebacker coincidentally since the Lions drafted Cliff Avril in the third round of the 2008 NFL Draft.
With the selection of @BoilerFootball LB @derrickbarnes21, the @Lions have acquired their 6th-ever Boilermaker LB.
He becomes @PurdueSports‘ highest-selected LB since Detroit took @cliffavril in 2008. pic.twitter.com/VJQ8WQcoap
— Detroit Lions PR (@LionsPR) May 1, 2021
Barnes joins wide receiver Rondale Moore as Purdue players selected in the 2021 NFL Draft. Moore was selected in the second round by the Arizona Cardinals, with the No. 49 overall pick.
The 6-foot, 238-pound Barnes was a second-team All-B1G selection last season, as he amassed 54 tackles, an interception, and two pass breakups. In high school, Barnes was an all-state running back.
Overall, Purdue has had three linebackers drafted since 2018.
Rolando Rosa brings his experience covering college football to Saturday Tradition. Follow him on Twitter @RolandoRosa3.