The Seattle Seahawks are set to take on the Carolina Panthers in Week 17, and fantasy football enthusiasts are keen to optimize their lineups for the matchup. Among the players to watch is tight end AJ Barner, who isn’t listed on the injury report and is expected to play unless something unexpected occurs.
As the game approaches, it’s crucial to keep an eye on the Seahawks’ injury report for any updates. For ongoing information, the Fantasy News Tracker can be a valuable resource.
When it comes to whether to start or sit Barner in this week’s lineup, there’s a noteworthy comparison to consider. While Colby Parkinson previously generated buzz as a tight end with impressive scoring, it seems he may have been slightly overvalued in light of recency bias. Barner may have entered the season with less attention, but he has proved to be a solid option given his lack of competition for targets.
In the recent overtime win, Barner was a focal point, logging 36 of Seattle’s 46 tight end routes and receiving the only target among tight ends. Over the last six games, he has accumulated 36 targets and has been a reliable option during crucial downs, catching 12 out of 14 passes on third downs. His ability to convert nearly half of his receptions into first downs signifies his role in the offense, particularly as other targets, like Cooper Kupp, struggled for consistent interaction.
Barner may not bring flash to the field, but he offers a dependable play in a Seattle offense still seeking a strong secondary receiver. His projected fantasy points for Week 17 stand at 8.1 in PPR formats, with expectations of 3 receptions for 25 yards, and potentially 0.4 touchdowns.
As for the game environment, conditions are favorable for fantasy production, with kickoff temperatures expected to be around 56 degrees Fahrenheit and winds at 8 mph. These moderate conditions should allow for an engaging matchup, increasing the likelihood of offensive plays.
Overall, as fantasy players finalize their lineups, AJ Barner serves as a promising option, particularly in a week where maximizing every point is crucial for wins and playoff aspirations.