Kenjon Barner showed Eagles coaches why he deserves to have a firm role in the running back rotation this upcoming season against the Steelers. Barner ran aggressively on Thursday, while also showing off his lateral quickness.

Barner was the leading rusher for Philadelphia in the contest, as they defeated the Steelers 17-0. He had six rushes for 41 yards and a touchdown.

The touchdown run came in the middle of the third quarter and really put the game away for Philadelphia. On the play, Barner eluded several tacklers and finished with power at the goal line.

The former Oregon Duck averaged 6.8 yards per carry in the game. Though that pace is unsustainable, it’s a testament to the running back’s ability. Albeit, his ability was on display in a meaningless preseason game.

Barner knows there’s a lot of competition at the running back position, and he must continue to show why he deserves to be one of the players retained come September. The Eagles have running backs Ryan Mathews, Darren Sproles, Wendell Smallwood and Byron Marshall competing with Barner to make the team.

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Barner was on the roster last season but didn’t do much at all. He had only 28 carries for 124 yards over the course of 11 games. In 2016, Barner has a shot to carve out a larger role.

With DeMarco Murray gone, and Ryan Mathews’ well-documented injury history, there’s a chance Barner gets substantial touches this year.

Barner’s versatility gives him extended value to Philadelphia. Not only was he running effectively from the backfield, but he was also returning kicks. His ability to perform on special teams, as well as on offense will help his chances of staying with the team throughout the 2016 campaign.