7. Derek Barnett, DE, Tennessee
Class: Junior
2016 Stats: 56 tackles (19 for loss), 13 sacks, one interception, five pass breakups, 16 QB hurries, two forced fumbles
Even before becoming Tennessee's career sack leader in his final game, Barnett was already arguably the best defensive end the Volunteers have ever had. Getting that 33rd sack to pass Reggie White in the Music City Bowl only solidified his place in program history.
The 6'3", 265-pound Barnett was an instant success in Knoxville with 10 sacks as a freshman, and he had at least that many in each season while also racking up 52 tackles for loss. And he didn't pad those numbers against lesser competition, getting 12 of his 13 sacks in 2016 and 29 of his 33 total against SEC opponents.
"My opinion, he's the best defensive end in the country," Tennessee coach Butch Jones said after the Music City Bowl, per Omaha.com. "Best defensive player in the country. And he just works: He works his craft every single day, ultra, ultra competitive."
Pro Football Focus tabbed Barnett as college football's best pass-rusher by virtue of his amazing 16.1 percent pass-rushing productivity rate and the fact he never graded below average in a game in 2016. Had Tennessee not squandered its SEC East title hopes midway through the season, he might have been a little higher overall on the list.
