Eagles’ Derek Barnett reportedly had offseason surgery

Eagles defensive end Derek Barnett underwent sports hernia surgery earlier this year following the conclusion of Philadelphia’s Super Bowl winning season, according to a report from PhillyVoice’s Jimmy Kempski.

Kempski also notes Barnett should be mostly healthy now since the surgery only projects to have a six-week recovery period. So, no need to panic.

From what I can tell, Barnett first appeared on the Eagles’ injury report with a groin issue prior to the Eagles’ Week 13 game against the Seattle Seahawks on December 3, 2017. The rookie Barnett did not miss any playing time, however, save for when the Eagles decided to rest him in a meaningless Week 17 game against the Dallas Cowboys.

Including the playoffs, Barnett only logged five tackles and 1.5 sacks in his final eight games of the season. He had notched 15 tackles and 4.5 sacks in his first 10 games, by comparison.

Barnett still made a big impact in the playoffs despite not playing at 100%. He strip-sacked Case Keenum on a huge play in the NFC Championship Game when the Vikings were in the red zone and had a chance to potentially tie the game at 14-14. (Thanks for that draft pick, Minnesota!)

Barnett also recovered the loose ball when Brandon Graham strip-sacked Tom Brady in the Super Bowl (pictured above this article). That recovery essentially ensured the Eagles’ first Vince Lombardi Trophy victory in franchise history.

Let’s watch it again.

Barnett has a very bright future ahead of him. He’s still only 21 years old! And he’s healthy now. Hopefully it stays that way.