Kenjon Barner enshrined into Oregon Hall of Fame
One of the greatest running backs ever to suit up in Eugene has received one of the highest honors of his career. Former Duck legend Kenjon Barner was officially announced as a member of the Oregon Hall of Fame Class for 2024, the school announced on social media on Friday night.
The Ducks legend will be in town this weekend to participate in the spring game festivities. He and Troy Dye will serve as guest coaches for the spring game on Saturday.
During his time in Eugene from 2009-2012, Barner teamed up with LaMichael James to form what is remembered as the greatest running back tandem in Oregon football history. James finished his career as the Ducks’ second all-time leading rusher with 5,082 rushing yards.
And Barner wrapped up his career as the school’s third all-time leading rusher with 3,623 rushing yards. Not only that, Barner had the most rushing yards ever recorded in a single-game in program history against the USC Trojans in 2012 (321). It’s more than 30 yards more than the second runner on that list, LaMichael James. Barner also managed to find the end zone five times in that game, tying him for the Oregon record for the most rushing touchdowns in a single game.
He also tied LaMichael James for the most rushing touchdowns in a single season in program history (21–2012). James was inducted into the Oregon Hall of Fame in 2023.
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Both players found historic success in Chip Kelly’s offensive scheme during their time in Eugene.
Barner saved his best season for last, with 278 carries, 1,767 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns. He averaged 6.4 yards per carry. Following his senior campaign, he was named second team AP All-American and first team All-Pac-12. Barner even finished in the Top 10 in the Heisman Trophy voting, finishing ninth place in 2012.
Fittingly enough, the Ducks won the 2013 Fiesta Bowl with Barner capping off his career with another great performance. He shredded Kansas State for 143 rushing yards and a 24-yard touchdown catch.
In the 2013 NFL Draft, Barner was drafted in the sixth round by the Carolina Panthers with the No. 182 overall pick. He simply couldn’t find the same prolific success in the pros that he had in college, nowhere near it. During his seven seasons in the National Football League, he finished with over 550 all-purpose yards and three total touchdowns.