Vaughn Mcclure of ESPN broke the news that the Falcons are signing running back Kenjon Barner to a one-year deal.
Falcons agree to terms with RB Kenjon Barner on 1-year contract
— vaughn mcclure (@vxmcclure23) March 14, 2019
Barner is more famous for his time at Oregon, where he was one of the most explosive backs in the country. His size never allowed him to become anything more than a change of pace back in the NFL and has since become a kick and punt return specialist.
In seven seasons, Barner only has 388 yards rushing and 130 yards receiving.
According to Mcclure, the Falcons view him as a returner. The team was planning on finding a kick returner and blocking tight end in the back half of the draft. With the addition of Barner and tight-end Luke Stocker, they can focus on their more severe needs like the trenches and secondary.