​The Seattle Seahawks are counting on several players to take a meaningful leap in 2026, but AJ Barner stands out as a specific name to watch as the new season approaches. ESPN’s Ben Solak has singled Barner out as the Seahawks player most primed for a breakout in 2026, underscoring why this season could be pivotal for his rise.
Solak’s assessment centers on Barner’s unique combination of skills and potential impact. He notes that there are very few tight ends who can genuinely move the needle on both facets of the game—block protection and pass-catching routes—and Barner appears to possess the versatility to be a complete contributor. In a league that increasingly rewards tight ends who can do it all, Barner’s development could be a differentiator for Seattle.
Last season, Barner was a key part of Seattle’s offense, recording 68 targets—third-most on the Seahawks receiving corps. That workload suggests a level of trust from the coaching staff and a solid foundation for future opportunities. As the Seahawks look ahead to 2026, Barner could see an uptick in looks, even with others in the mix competing for targets.
Rashid Shaheed is another Seahawks receiver who figures to see an expanded workload next year. While Shaheed’s increased involvement is expected, it doesn’t necessarily mean Barner’s opportunities will be markedly diminished. The dynamics of Seattle’s passing game could allow both players to thrive, with Barner potentially capitalizing on favorable matchups and scenario-based opportunities.
Barner, who is 24 years old, made his mark as a scoring threat in 2025, contributing seven total touchdowns from scrimmage for Seattle. That kind of production, paired with Barner’s demonstrated reliability and versatility, positions him as a natural candidate for a prominent role in Seattle’s red-zone and goal-line packages. If he continues to develop as a reliable target for the Seahawks’ quarterback, Sam Darnold, Barner could become a go-to option in scoring situations again in 2026.
The expectation surrounding Barner isn’t solely about accumulating more targets; it’s about elevating his overall impact on the offense. If he can maintain or even improve his efficiency as a receiver while continuing to contribute as a blocker when asked, Barner could help unlock a more dynamic Seahawks offense. His ability to function effectively in multiple roles makes him a valuable asset, especially in a league that rewards players who can contribute in a variety of ways.
The conversation around Barner’s potential breakout in 2026 also reflects broader optimism about Seattle’s offensive trajectory. A player who can help diversify the receiving corps and provide a reliable option in both the short and intermediate passing game could be a welcomed development for a Seahawks squad looking to maximize its offensive ceiling. Barner’s progress will be closely watched by observers and fans alike as the 2026 season unfolds.
In summary, AJ Barner is poised to be a focal point of Seattle’s offense in 2026, with many analysts signaling that he could emerge as one of the top breakout candidates for the team. His combination of blocking ability and receiving potential, plus his track record of production, makes him a player to monitor as the season approaches. If Barner builds on his 2025 production and maintains the confidence of Seattle’s coaching staff, 2026 could be the year he solidifies himself as a premier tight end in the league. This perspective aligns with Solak’s assessment that Barner represents a rising top-10 talent at the position, and it underscores why he is considered a name to watch as the Seahawks prepare for the new season. This content initially appeared on Seahawks Wire: Seahawks TE named by ESPN as breakout candidate for 2026.