Draft analyst says Purdue LB having strong showing during Senior Bowl workouts
Purdue linebacker Derrick Barnes hasn’t been mentioned much in NFL Draft coverage since the end of the 2020 college football season, but he’s trying to change that during Senior Bowl week. It sounds like it’s working.
NFL Draft analyst Tony Pauline tweeted out on Thursday that the former Boilermaker has been “one of the better LBs” participating in the Senior Bowl this week. He’s been dominant in blocking drills and has showcased some athleticism while taking part in coverage drills, as well.
Derrick Barnes/Purdue has been one of the better LBs at the #SeniorBowl few are talking about. Dominant in blocking drills and looks very athletic in coverage drills. Outstanding film as well. Going to be a middle round steal in April.
— Tony Pauline (@TonyPauline) January 28, 2021
Barnes was Purdue’s leading tackler in 2020, totaling 54 stops in six games. He was also credited with 5.5 tackles for loss, a pass break-up and an interception for the Boilermakers.
During the course of his four seasons at Purdue, Barnes tallied 224 tackles, 25 stops for loss, 10.5 sacks, 3 pass break-ups a forced fumble and an interception. He was consistently one of the better defenders in West Lafayette and it appears to be translating this week during Senior Bowl workouts.
We’ll see how much this weeks benefits the former Boilermaker when the NFL Draft rolls around.