Who Should I Start? Brock Wright or AJ Barner

Thursday, December 4, 6:25 PM

The Detroit Lions announced on Thursday before their game against the Dallas Cowboys that they placed tight end Brock Wright (neck) on Injured Reserve. In corresponding moves, the team signed cornerback Nick Whiteside to the 53-man active roster from the practice squad and also elevated wide receiver Malik Cunningham from the practice squad. Wright will join Sam LaPorta (back) on IR and won't be eligible to return until the Week 18 regular-season finale against the division-rival Chicago Bears on Jan. 4. With both Wright and LaPorta sidelined, Ross Dwelley figures to see the most TE snaps for the Lions, with Anthony Firkser also being involved. Both tight ends are more of blockers than pass-catchers, though, and should be avoided in most fantasy football leagues. In last week's loss to the Packers, Dwelley and Firkser combined for two catches on four targets for just seven yards.

Saturday, January 3, 6:21 PM

Seattle Seahawks tight end AJ Barner has picked up his play over the last few weeks. Barner has taken over as the primary tight end in this offense with Elijah Arroyo (knee) being sidelined since Week 15. Since then, Barner has hauled in 10 receptions for 119 yards and two touchdowns. The 23-year-old has been making the most of his increased playing time. He should be able to offer at least high-end TE2 value for the upcoming Week 18 matchup versus the San Francisco 49ers. The Seahawks need to win to secure the No. 1 seed, so Barner should see a full workload.