Who Should I Start? Dalton Schultz or AJ Barner

Wednesday, June 4, 12:31 PM

Houston Texans tight end Dalton Schultz (leg) is back practicing at voluntary organized team activities this week after missing the first few sessions with an apparent leg injury, according to the Houston Chronicle's Jonathan M. Alexander. In his second year working with quarterback C.J. Stroud, Schultz disappointed in 2024 with 53 catches on 85 targets for 532 yards and only two touchdowns in 17 regular-season games (13 starts), especially when considering the season-ending injuries to receivers Stefon Diggs (knee) and Tank Dell (knee). Diggs is gone and Dell probably won't play at all in 2025, but the Texans added Christian Kirk via trade and Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel in the draft. The 28-year-old is the team's clear-cut top pass-catching tight end, but Schultz could once again struggle for consistent targets on a week-to-week basis for his fantasy managers.

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.