The Carolina Panthers decided to pull the plug on the short-lived Kenjon Barner experiment, sending the second-year running back to the Philadelphia Eagles for a conditional seventh round pick in the 2015 NFL Draft.
Barner was selected in Dave Gettleman's first draft in 2013 and viewed as a potential third-wheel for a full-house backfield, along with DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart. This was quickly derailed following a disappointing preseason and mediocre year.
The former Oregon running back had a chance to separate himself from the pack this year, but showed almost-nothing in two preseason games, all while 25-year-old Fozzy Whitaker proved himself to be more valuable, durable and more-suited to the Panthers style of running.
Lets face it: Barner would have been cut before the final 53, so getting something for him was pretty shrewd. He'd done nothing to show he had a future with the Carolina Panthers, and now he has a chance to operate in an offense more befitting his style under former college coach Chip Kelly. It's a win-win situation for Barner and the Panthers, now we wait to see if it will pay dividends for the Eagles.
It's unclear what the conditions of the trade are at this time, but it's safe to assume they rely on Barner making the Eagles' roster this year. I wouldn't be hoping on the Panthers getting a pick if his past performance is any indication