Seahawks TE AJ Barner "feels confident" headed into 2026 season

The Seattle Seahawks are gearing up to take on the New England Patriots for a Week 1 rematch of Super Bowl LX from this past February. Seattle will look to begin defending their crown the same way they earned it: by defeating the Patriots.

In the Seahawks' triumphant 29-13 blowout win over New England, one of the key players was tight end AJ Barner. The former Michigan star, who was primarily a blocking tight end during his days with the Wolverines, caught the lone offensive touchdown for Seattle that night. According to Barner, he is feeling confident, both mentally and physically, regarding his health going into the 2026 season.

Barner was asked about his health during a post practice press conference, and he gave an answer that every 12th Man will want to hear.

Barner is a critical cog in the Seahawks' offensive machine, and expect him to have an increased role as he enters his third season. Seattle's big man caught 52 receptions for 519 yards and six touchdowns last season - improving in all categories from his rookie year. With new offensive coordinator Brian Fleury's background in coaching the San Francisco 49ers' tight ends for the last several seasons, you simply must figure that Barner is in line for plenty of targets again this season.

Seattle kicks off on Wednesday night against New England on NBC at 5:20 pm Pacific Time.