AJ Barner: Everything you need to know

Barner caught all four targets for 54 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 29-13 win over the Patriots in the Super Bowl. All four of Barner's catches went for first downs, and he finished second on the team in receiving yards behind Cooper Kupp (61). Barner's first postseason touchdown -- a 16-yard reception where he was wide open -- essentially put the game away for the Seahawks in the fourth quarter. The Seahawks trusted the second-year tight end with blocking and pass-catching duties all season, and he finished with 58 receptions for 586 yards and seven touchdowns across 20 games, including the postseason. He should be the leader for the No. 1 tight-end role in 2026 despite the addition of Elijah Arroyo -- a second-round pick in 2025.

Barner caught two of three targets for 13 yards in Sunday's 31-27 win over the Rams in the NFC Championship Game. Barner didn't record a catch in the NFC divisional-round win over the 49ers, and he had a limited role in this contest despite playing 64 of 67 offensive snaps. The second-year tight end reeled in six touchdown passes over 17 regular-season games, so he'll have some upside due to his role in the Super Bowl versus the Patriots.

Barner wasn't targeted in Saturday's 41-6 win over the 49ers in the divisional round. QB Sam Darnold attempted just 17 passes because the Seahawks' defense and special teams were so effective to start the game, and Barner was unable to draw his attention. However, he did rush once for two yards to pick up a first down. The second-year tight end out of Michigan is reliant on touchdowns for his fantasy value. He found the end zone six times during the regular season.