Report: Patriots Sign Former Eagles Running Back

Jeremy Hill suffered a season-ending injury, and now the Patriots are signing a former Eagles running back for their backfield.

ESPN’s Mike Reiss confirmed that the New England Patriots landed free agent Kenjon Barner to complete their roster. The former Eagles running back filled the last open spot on the 53-man roster.

Barner worked out for the team this month. He is a former sixth round pick of the Carolina Panthers in 2013 out of Oregon. The running back spent some time with the Chargers, and had two sting with the Philadelphia Eagles. He was also part on the last season’s Eagles squad at the very same time they defeated the Patriots in Super Bowl LII.

Barner totaled 317 yards with 21 receptions, 127 yards receiving and three total touchdowns. He will sure provide depth at running back unit, and the Patriots may consider him as more of a replacement for Riley McCarron when it comes to the punt return game.

McCarron was waived after the regular-season opener as he muffed a punt that helped the Texans to come back into the game.

Barner has returned 30 punts for 259 yards and returned 22 kickoffs for 498 yards.

He is considered as more of a punt return option that someone who can enhance the game in the backfield. In other words, the Patriots have a lot of confidence in James White and Rex Burkhead.

Burkhead had the start in the game against the Texans, and rushed for 64 yards on 18 carries. White was able to catch four of his nine targets for 38 yards and a touchdown.

The Patriots have completed their roster. Barner, Coleman and Fowler filled the three open spots on the roster, and they will have to find a way to cope with the rhythm of the game.