Who Should I Start? Michael Mayer or AJ Barner

Monday, May 4, 10:35 AM

Seattle Seahawks tight end AJ Barner emerged as a red zone weapon in 2025, recording 52 receptions for 519 yards and six touchdowns on 68 targets across 17 games. Seattle also used the 24-year-old as its "tush push" quarterback, which allowed Barner to pick up an extra touchdown as a rusher. All told, Barner finished as the TE14 in half-PPR fantasy scoring. However, despite the solid year, Barner may profile as a sell-high candidate in dynasty leagues heading into 2026. For one, he remained a low-volume receiver in 2025, averaging just four targets per game. Additionally, the Seahawks could expand the role of 2025 second-round tight end Elijah Arroyo, who likely offers a higher upside as a pass-catcher than Barner. Barner's rushing usage gives him some additional fantasy upside, but he's likely too reliant on touchdowns to be counted on as a reliable producer at the tight end position going forward.