Kamara, Barnett Set for NFL Preseason Debuts Tonight

For the first time in their NFL careers, Alvin Kamara and Derek Barnett will take to an NFL field for their first action. Tennessee all-time sack leader Derek Barnett will try to continue that success as a member of the Philadelphia Eagles, while Alvin Kamara will try to prove his worth in New Orleans.

Barnett’s Eagles will take on the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. That’s quite the place for an NFL debut. He won’t be chasing Aaron Rodgers, but rather Brett Hundley who will start in his place. Barnett was placed second on the Philadelphia depth chart at defensive end, checking in behind Vinny Curry.

Alvin Kamara landed in a great spot with the New Orleans Saints. Sure — Adrian Peterson and Mark Ingram are ahead of him on the depth chart, but neither of those two can contribute in the passing game like Kamara can. He should get a chance to shine in that role during his rookie year.

For tonight, Peterson and Ingram won’t be playing, leaving the door wide open for Kamara to get plenty of work. He should share the load with Travaris Cadet and Daniel Lasco against a less than stellar Cleveland Browns defense. He won’t get to work with Drew Brees, who will also sit out. Chase Daniel is expected to start.

Elsewhere, Jason Croom is set to debut with the Buffalo Bills as a tight end. Croom wasn’t drafted, but has a shot to stick with the Bills thanks to a need at his position.

We’ll keep you posted with highlights of all the other former Volunteers in action tonight.