AJ Barner Poised for Breakout Season with Seahawks

Top‑10 TE with Dual Threat Abilities

ESPN’s Ben Solak has placed AJ Barner on the radar as a rising top‑10 tight end for the 2026 campaign. Solak describes Barner as one of the rare “complete” TEs who can move the needle both as a blocker and a receiver. His ability to contribute in the passing game makes him a crucial piece for Seattle’s offense moving forward.

Barner was the third‑most targeted player in Seattle’s receiving corps last season, catching 68 passes. The Seahawks expect a noticeable uptick in opportunities for the 24‑year‑old in 2026, positioning him for a potential statistical leap. While Rashid Shaheed is slated for a larger workload, the increased target share for Shaheed is unlikely to erode Barner’s chances significantly.

On the field, Barner recorded seven touchdowns from scrimmage in 2025, establishing himself as a reliable scoring threat. He figures to be a favored option for quarterback Sam Darnold in scoring situations again next year. Seattle’s offensive coordination will likely lean on Barner’s proven reliability when the team needs points in the red zone.

Balancing Target Share and Competition

The Seahawks’ target distribution will see more looks directed at Shaheed, but the playbook is designed to keep Barner’s role intact. Even if Shaheed captures a larger slice of the passing attack, Barner’s established chemistry with Darnold should preserve his workload. This balanced approach helps Seattle avoid over‑reliance on any single receiver while maximizing the strengths of both tight ends.

What Barner’s 2026 Role Means for Seattle

A breakout season from Barner could unlock additional versatility for the Seahawks’ offense, giving them a reliable dual‑threat option in the middle of the field. His presence adds depth to an offensive line that has already shown strength in the run game, potentially opening lanes for ground attacks. With the team looking to maintain momentum after a recent Super Bowl run, Barner’s development is a key metric to watch for Seahawks fans throughout the upcoming season.