Who Should I Start? Josh Oliver or AJ Barner

Sunday, October 5, 2:08 PM

Minnesota Vikings tight end Josh Oliver scored a touchdown for the second time in three weeks, finishing with two catches for 35 yards and a touchdown in the Vikings' 21-17 victory against Cleveland. The blocking-focused tight end was the secret weapon on a trick play, leaking through the Browns' defense with backup running back Cam Akers in a Wildcat look, which led to a 32-yard scoring connection for the Vikings' first touchdown. Oliver nearly had a second score, but was tackled inside the five on his only other catch. He remains an unpredictable, touchdown-dependent play, but deserves some roster consideration in deeper formats.

Monday, October 13, 11:29 AM

Seattle Seahawks tight end AJ Barner saw his production dip slightly in Sunday's 20-12 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars, but was still effective even on minimal work. Barner caught a career-high seven passes in Week 5, but drew only three targets against Jacksonville (3/71). Despite the downtick, the 23-year-old placed second in yards, receptions, and looks to target hog teammate Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and remains an intriguing fantasy play. While the touchdowns can't be counted on every week, Barner is far and away the snap leader at his position, and the clear third target on the team behind Smith-Njigba and veteran Cooper Kupp. Fantasy managers can't expect weekly consistency quite yet with diminished target totals, but the Michigan alum is an excellent streaming option and is slowly rising up the dynasty ranks.