Who Should I Start? Luke Farrell or AJ Barner

Monday, March 10, 4:19 PM

Former Jacksonville Jaguars tight end Luke Farrell agreed to a three-year contract worth up to $20.25 million on Monday with $11 million guaranteed, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. It's an addition for the 49ers in free agency that will bolster their tight end depth behind All-Pro George Kittle, who is no stranger to injuries. The 27-year-old Farrell was a former fifth-round selection (145th overall) by the Jaguars in 2021 out of Ohio State. He had 36 receptions on only 47 targets for 318 yards and no touchdowns in 66 games (20 starts) in his four seasons with Jacksonville. Farrell's best season came in 2023, when he caught 13 of his 15 targets for 155 yards. If Eric Saubert leaves as an unrestricted free agent this year, Farrell will have a better shot at being the primary backup to Kittle when games kick off in Week 1 this fall.

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.