What's Happening?
AJ Barner, a sophomore tight end for the Seattle Seahawks, demonstrated significant improvement in his performance during Week 11 against the Los Angeles Rams. Barner successfully caught 10 out of 11 targets, accumulating 70 yards, and took two carries
for one yard in the game, which ended in a 21-19 loss for the Seahawks. This marked a notable comeback from his previous zero-catch effort in Week 10. Barner's involvement in Seattle's variation of the 'tush push' play resulted in one successful attempt. His performance in this game elevated his season totals to 31 receptions for 306 yards, surpassing his rookie year achievements of 30 receptions for 245 yards.
Why It's Important?
Barner's enhanced performance is crucial for the Seahawks as they seek to strengthen their offensive capabilities. His ability to bounce back from a less productive game in Week 10 and deliver career-best marks in targets, receptions, and yardage indicates his growing role in the team's strategy. This development could influence the Seahawks' approach in upcoming games, potentially providing them with a more versatile offensive option. Barner's progress also highlights the importance of player development and adaptation in the NFL, which can significantly impact team dynamics and performance.
What's Next?
The Seahawks may continue to integrate Barner more prominently into their offensive plays, especially given his recent success. This could involve further utilization of the 'tush push' strategy, which has shown potential in recent games. As the season progresses, Barner's role may expand, offering the Seahawks additional tactical options. The team will likely assess his performance in upcoming matches to determine the best ways to leverage his skills for future success.
