According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, former Eagles running back Kenjon Barner is set to sign with the Los Angeles Chargers.
Former #Eagles RB Kenjon Barner is signing with #Chargers, source said. More RB depth.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 20, 2017
The Eagles opted not to re-sign the free agent after the 2016 and also decided against placing a tender on him.
As one of the last Oregon holdovers from the Chip Kelly regime, Barner played in just 8.7 percent of snaps last year, despite his production when he on the field. After breaking out against the Steelers for a career high 42-yards and his first NFL touchdown, Barner showed an ability to be explosive with the ball in his hands, leading the team with 4.8 yards per carry. He also averaged nearly 31 yards per kick return.
However, as the season went on and the committee effort began to dwindle, the Eagles backfield seemed to turn to Darren Sproles and Ryan Mathews more and more often. Barner was lost in the depth chart behind rookie Wendell Smallwood and failed to burst onto the scene in the limited action he did have in the weeks after those strong games against Cleveland and Pittsburgh.
When depth seemed to lack and Barner had a golden opportunity to shine, that chance was stripped away with a season ending hamstring injury which he suffered against the Ravens. Barner ended his final season as an Eagle with 129 yards and 2 touchdowns on 27 attempts.
It will be interesting to see if Barner can battle his way to a roster spot with the Chargers and if he does, what kind of impact he will have if given regular playing time.
Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
