Who Should I Start? AJ Barner or Colston Loveland

Sunday, January 5, 8:18 PM

Seattle Seahawks tight end AJ Barner scored his fourth touchdown of the season in a Week 18 win over the Los Angeles Rams. The rookie out of Michigan has proven to be a solid contributor all season. He will finish the year with 245 yards on 30 receptions in addition to the touchdowns. Barner has a chance to become a more integral part of Seattle's offense in 2025. He has already displayed solid pass-catching chops and solid run after catch ability this season. He also started several games in place of tight end Noah Fant this season. He displayed that he has what it takes to be a potential starting tight end in this league. Barner is worth monitoring throughout the offseason to see what kind of buzz he generates in camp. He is also worth a roster spot in dynasty should he have a full second-year breakout. The future looks like it could be bright for this kid.

Tuesday, July 22, 2:46 PM

Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles says that rookie tight end Colston Loveland (shoulder) is "ready to go," according to Jason Lieser of the Chicago Sun-Times. Lieser notes that there could be a gradual ramp-up period for Loveland as he recovers from the shoulder surgery he underwent in January. The Bears drafted Loveland in the first round of the 2025 draft out of Michigan. In 10 games last season for the Wolverines, he recorded 56 catches for 582 yards and five touchdowns. Chicago has an established tight end to pair with Loveland in Cole Kmet, so the rookie won't need to be leaned on too heavily right away. Loveland is a borderline TE1 for fantasy, but a healthy and productive preseason could improve his outlook.