Vols Football: Who Has Impressed, Needs Improvement Through Week 2

Jul 3, 2013; Beaverton, OR, USA; Defensive lineman Derek Barnett (92) looks on during the Lineman Challenge session of The Opening at Nike World Headquarters. PHOTO: Steve Dykes-USA TODAY Sports

Impressed: Defensive End Derek Barnett

Throughout fall camp, Butch Jones and his assistants have done nothing but praise freshman defensive end Derek Barnett for his tenacity during practice.

Barnett was one of the first 4 freshmen to have their black stripe removed during camp, and from what coaches and players have said, he’s more than earned it.

At Thursday’s media day, Corey Vereen, Trevarris Saulsberry, and Curt Maggitt all had praise for the freshman defensive end, whether it was for his strength, his technique, or his mental toughness.

During a team period on Tuesday, Barnett saw 1st-team reps at defensive end, joining cornerback Emmanuel Moseley as true freshmen on Tennessee’s 1st-team defense.

Barnett looks the part so far through the first two weeks of camp, and if he continues the good work, he may find himself starting come August 31st.