Defensive end Antwan Barnes thought that he would have been an Eagle following the 2007 NFL Draft.
The Eagles worked him out at the Florida International Pro Day. The Eagles also conducted a private workout with Barnes.
However, Barnes was selected by the Ravens in the fourth round of that year's draft. He accumulated 20 tackles, five sacks, an interception and 24 special teams tackles in 37 games. Even though he had his best year in 2009 with three sacks and an interception, the Ravens dealt Barnes to the Eagles on Saturday for an undisclosed draft pick in 2011.
"They wanted to do it their way, plus they had Terrell Suggs, the guy they gave all of that money to," Barnes said. "A change of scenery will be good for me. I just want to show these guys that I can rush the passer and be part of the team. Things change and sometimes change is for the good."
Now in Philadelphia with just a week before the season opener against the Green Bay Packers, Barnes has to get adjusted to a new team, a new city and a new defense. A 3-4 outside linebacker with the Ravens, Barnes will be a 4-3 defensive end and has the flexibility to play the Joker (stand-up rusher) position. The all-time sack leader at Florida International, rushing the passer is Barnes' specialty.
"I've been doing it since high school," Barnes said. "I can adapt to anything else. I can drop (back in coverage). I can cover the running back, cover the tight end. Whatever they want me to do."
Barnes said that he spent the time during the film sessions earlier today writing down notes and getting used to the calls. Even though the team is off on Monday, Barnes will be at the NovaCare Complex grilling defensive line coach Rory Segrest with questions about the scheme. Barnes' mind might be going crazy learning a new defense so close to the start of the season, but he's psyched for the challenge.
""I had to wait three years and now I'm an Eagle," Barnes said. "I'm ready to do it. I'm eager to get out on this field."
-- Posted by Chris McPherson, 8:25 p.m., September 5
