Who Should I Start? AJ Barner or Tip Reiman

Friday, December 26, 7:37 PM

Seattle Seahawks tight end AJ Barner is a starting option in Week 17 against a middle-of-the-pack Carolina Panthers defense. The Panthers are No. 17 against opposing tight ends in fantasy. The defense is much improved from last season and is not being gouged at every level of the field as they have in years past. Barner has been relatively fantasy-relevant this season with a nose for the end zone and a proven after-catch ability. In Week 16, Barner caught four of six targets for 49 yards and a touchdown. He has also recorded at least six targets in two straight games. The recent volume supplies Barner with a solid fantasy floor. The Seahawks should be able to move the ball against the Panthers, which will provide Barner with red zone opportunities. If you need a potential replacement for an injured San Francisco 49ers tight end, George Kittle (ankle), or underperformers such as Indianapolis Colts tight end Tyler Warren, Barner is a solid option for championship week.

Sunday, October 5, 6:43 PM

Arizona Cardinals tight end Tip Reiman (right leg) was carted to the locker room during the second half of Sunday's Week 5 contest against the Tennessee Titans. He suffered the injury after failing to haul in his first and only target of the game. Given the urgency of the Cardinals' medical personnel to get the cart on the field for Reiman, this could be a very serious injury, and it's likely one that will keep him sidelined for the remainder of the contest. He has merely occupied a depth role in Arizona this season, catching just three passes for 18 yards. Elijah Higgins will step up as the No. 2 tight end behind Trey McBride.