Who Should I Start? Cole Kmet or AJ Barner

Saturday, July 19, 11:33 AM

Chicago Bears tight end Cole Kmet was initially taken aback when the team took rookie Colston Loveland in the first round in April, but now he's beginning to buy into new head coach Ben Johnson's offensive vision. "I'm excited about it. I'm excited to not only push him but then for him to push me. We're going to make each other better. I think the goal with it is to become the best 12 (personnel) tandem in the league and see where we can take it from there," Kmet said. In Detroit, Johnson's offense ran the third-most plays out of 12 personnel (two TEs) in the league, posted a success rate of 47.9%, averaged a gain of 6.2 yards per play and logged 59 explosive plays in 2024. The Lions also had the most TDs out of 12 personnel. It doesn't mean Chicago's offense will be among the best in the league immediately, but Kmet's demise might be premature, especially with Loveland still rehabbing a shoulder injury heading into training camp.

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.