AJ Barner vs Pat Freiermuth: Who Should You Start?
Deciding between AJ Barner and Pat Freiermuth is a common lineup dilemma for fantasy managers. The Seattle Seahawks tight end put up 7.1 PPG in 2025 over 17 games; Pat Freiermuth of the Pittsburgh Steelers averaged 5.5 in 17. A 1.6-point margin that could shift on any given week.
The per-game difference of 1.6 points favors AJ Barner, though savvy managers know that gap can shrink or widen depending on the weekly slate. Defensive matchup, recent scoring trends, and health status all shift the calculus from one tight end to the other.
Both see steady target volume for the tight end position. AJ Barner had 52 catches for 519 yards; Pat Freiermuth posted 41 for 486. At a position where most starters barely clear 7 PPG, this class of tight end is where the fantasy advantage lives week to week.
Bye weeks matter for roster construction: AJ Barner sits Week 10 while Pat Freiermuth is off Week 9. If you are deciding between the two as a season-long roster hold, the staggered byes actually work in your favor.
