Former Vol who was cast aside by his former team plays big role in NFL playoff win

A former Tennessee Vols standout who was cast aside by his former team played a big role in the Houston Texans' playoff win against the Cleveland Browns. 

Former Vols edge rusher Derek Barnett, Tennessee's career sacks leader, was released by the Philadelphia Eagles earlier this season after spending the first six-and-a-half seasons of his career with the franchise. 

Barnett was a first round selection by the Eagles in the 2017 NFL Draft, but injuries limited in his production in his final seasons with the team. In his nine games with the Eagles in 2023 before he was released, Barnett's playing time was significantly reduced. 

The Texans quickly claimed Barnett off waivers in late November. And that decision has paid dividends for Houston. 

Barnett totaled 19 tackles and 2.5 sacks in six regular season games with the Texans. 

And on Saturday, in a blowout win against the Browns in the opening round of the playoffs, Barnett contributed a sack and a quarterback pressure that forced a Joe Flacco interception that was returned for a touchdown.