EAGLES GET A MINOR STEAL IN SPEEDY RB BARNER
The Philadelphia Eagles acquired running back Kenjon Barner from the Carolina Panthers for a conditional seventh-round draft pick in 2015.
What does it give the Philadelphia Eagles
When the Eagles traded {P=17783 Bryce Brown} this summer, it left a void at backup tailback behind superstar {P LeSean McCoy}. Newcomer {P Darren Sproles} is more of a receiving option, and Barner has the tools to take some of the pressure off McCoy as a lead runner (in case of injury or in blowouts, etc.). Barner has excellent speed and some ability as a returner, so this is a minor steal by the Eagles.
What does it give the Carolina Panthers
With {P Jonathan Stewart} stepping up as Carolina's probable top running back and veteran {P DeAngelo Williams} also expected to see regular carries, Barner wasn't likely to play much with the Panthers this season. Factor in that newcomer {P=17899 Fozzy Whitaker} has some talent and can be their third back, and Barner became expendable. The seventh-rounder isn't much of a return, but this at least clarifies the Carolina backfield.
Fantasy impact
If McCoy or Sproles gets injured this season, Barner definitely becomes a nice sleeper pickup (since he has great speed and was very successful in college). This deal also gives Whitaker a small boost in sleeper potential. Otherwise, there isn't much immediate fantasy impact for either player or for either team's current starters.
Player focus
Carolina Panthers
a conditional seventh-round draft pick in 2015