Who Should I Start? Marquez Valdes-Scantling or AJ Barner

Wednesday, March 12, 1:12 PM

Free-agent wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling is signing with the Seattle Seahawks on a one-year deal worth up to $5.5 million, according to NFL insider Tom Pelissero. The 30-year-old is set to join his fourth team in three years after posting 17 receptions on 35 targets for 385 yards and four touchdowns in eight games with the New Orleans Saints to close out the 2024 campaign. MVS was originally a fifth-round pick in the 2018 NFL Draft out of USF and has totaled 205 catches for 3,566 yards, and 20 touchdowns in 106 career games. While the veteran is unlikely to be a consistent fantasy producer, he could have spike weeks in Seattle's new-look offense led by Sam Darnold. With DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett out of town, Valdes-Scantling could have the opportunity to start in three-wide sets from Day 1 of the 2025 NFL season.

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.