An in depth and complete scouting report and draft prospect profile of Michigan Tight End AJ Barner for the NFL Draft.
Player: AJ Barner
Age: 21
AJ Barner Measurables:
- Height: 6’6
- Weight: 251
- 40:
- Vertical Jump:
- Broad Jump:
Prospect Grade: 66%
Projected Draft Day: 2
Ceiling Comparison: Hunter Henry
Floor Comparison: Daniel Bellinger
Best Team Fits:
AJ Barner Summary:
The Positives
- Very effective blocker
- Blocking mentality will be coveted by teams at the next level.
- Possesses a decent amount of route diversity for a player that was not targeted a ton
- Above average athleticism
- Reliable hands on the targets he was given
- Young compared to other tight ends in this class
The Negatives
- Never the main tight end in an offense
- Lacks elite or even good production numbers
- Did not do any testing at the combine
Barner is a level above most tight ends in this class in terms of blocking. This was his primary role at Michigan with Colston Loveland being the pass catcher, and he performed that role very well. However, the difference between Barner and other blocking tight ends is the receiving upside. He does not labor through routes and shows a surprising route diversity that you do not usually see with players that are blockers first. His athletic upside his there and his hands seem to be dependable. He may be a day 3 pick, but he absolutely has the upside of a starter in the NFL. The other major advantage for Barner is his age and development window. At 21, he is one of the youngest tight end prospects in this class.