Who Should I Start? Cade Otton or AJ Barner

Tuesday, August 5, 9:41 AM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers tight end Cade Otton (hamstring) will remain out for the team's practice on Tuesday, according to Greg Auman of Fox Sports. Otton has been sidelined for over a week with what Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles described as a "mild" hamstring strain. There's been no indication as of yet that Otton is at risk of missing regular-season time. If the injury does end up sidelining him, Payne Durham and Ko Kieft would be in line for more snaps at tight end in Tampa Bay. In 14 games for the Buccaneers in 2024, Otton recorded 59 catches for 600 yards and four touchdowns. There's significant target competition for him in Tampa Bay due to the team's talent and depth at wide receiver, so Otton profiles as a TE2 for fantasy.

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.