Barner's elite athleticism and blocking prowess support his emergence in Seattle's passing game.

AJ Barner is a plus athlete despite not being a speedster. The second-year tight end was drafted in round 4, pick 121 in the 2024 draft class and scored an 8.70 RAS out of 10.00, ranking 157 out of 1,199 tight ends from 1987 to 2024. Barner is also an asset as a blocker; PFF graded him 15th out of 78 tight ends with at least 150 blocking snaps in run blocking and 30th in pass blocking. His blocking ability will help him stay on the field. The Seahawks are getting rewarded for banking on his athleticism translating to the passing attack, even though Barner never reached 30 receptions or 250 receiving yards in a collegiate season.