Seahawks tight end AJ Barner expects larger role for 2026 season
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 8, 2026, 5:39 PM
Last updated Sep 8, 2026
Seattle Seahawks tight end AJ Barner enters his third NFL season reporting full health following two offseason surgeries. The former Michigan player managed several injuries throughout the 2025 campaign, during which he recorded 52 receptions for 519 yards and six touchdowns. Barner contributed to the Seahawks' 29-13 victory over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LX by catching the team's lone offensive touchdown. With new offensive coordinator Brian Fleury joining the staff, expectations remain high for Barner to see more targets in the team's offense. The Seahawks begin their season on Wednesday night in a rematch against the New England Patriots. Kickoff for the primetime matchup is scheduled for 5:20 pm Pacific Time on NBC.
- •AJ Barner returns to full physical health after undergoing two surgeries during the offseason.
- •The Seahawks open the 2026 season with a Wednesday night game against the New England Patriots.
- •Barner recorded 52 catches and six touchdowns during the 2025 season.
- •New offensive coordinator Brian Fleury is expected to provide more targets for the tight end position.
- 5:39 PMYahoo Sports — Seahawks TE AJ Barner could be in store for breakout 2026 season
- 9:50 PMYahoo Sports — Seahawks TE AJ Barner "feels confident" headed into 2026 season
"Seattle's third year tight end has only shown improvement thus far in his young career.
"The former Michigan tight end is feeling great health wise
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsSep 8, 2026, 5:39 PMSeahawks TE AJ Barner could be in store for breakout 2026 season
Seattle's third year tight end has only shown improvement thus far in his young career.
- Yahoo SportsSep 5, 2026, 9:50 PMSeahawks TE AJ Barner "feels confident" headed into 2026 season
The former Michigan tight end is feeling great health wise
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