Seattle Seahawks rookie tight end AJ Barner made an impact in Sunday’s heartbreaking 27-24 Week 16 loss to the Minnesota Vikings. Barner caught a four-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter that gave the Seahawks a late 24-20 advantage. Unfortunately, Justin Jefferson would score the game-winning TD on the ensuing possession.
A.J. Barner has exceeded all reasonable expectations during his rookie year as a pass catcher. Looks like an absolute natural plucking the ball out of the air, getting both feet down inbounds in back of end zone for six. #Seahawks pic.twitter.com/XMnTL0JN8S
— Corbin K. Smith (@CorbinSmithNFL) December 24, 2024
Barner recorded just two receptions for 13 yards. His end-zone visit was the third touchdown of his rookie season. The No. 121 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft seems to routinely take advantage of his rare opportunities. He possessed untapped potential as a pass catcher coming out of Michigan. It leads to the question, should Barner have a larger role in Ryan Grubb’s passing offense?
Barner is still playing a reserve role behind unquestioned starter Noah Fant. On Sunday, Barner was even out-snapped 21-19 by Pharaoh Brown. It’s worth noting Fant was effective, recording three receptions on six targets for 50 receiving yards, including one of Seattle’s longest passing gains of the afternoon.
Brown is playing on an expiring contract and is unlikely to return in 2025. Fant will be entering a fate-deciding contract year when next season kicks off. Barner could eventually find himself in a more front-facing offensive role. Until that time arrives, Mike Macdonald and Grubb should bestow Barner with more passing-down opportunities.
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