AJ Barner

Overview

AJ Barner spent one season at Michigan (2023) after transferring from Indiana. A physical, 6-foot-6 tight end, he contributed as both a receiver and blocker during the Wolverines’ national championship run. Barner appeared in all 15 games with nine starts and earned All-Big Ten honorable mention recognition.

He was selected by the Seattle Seahawks in the fourth round (121st overall) of the 2024 NFL Draft.

Michigan Statistics (2023)

Career Highs at Michigan

• Receptions: 8 (at Michigan State, Oct. 21, 2023)

• Receiving Yards: 99 (at Michigan State, Oct. 21, 2023)

• Touchdowns: 1 (at Michigan State, Oct. 21, 2023)

2023 Season Highlights

Barner transferred to Michigan in December 2022 seeking a larger role in a tight end-friendly system. He quickly earned playing time in an offense that frequently used multiple tight end sets.

His best statistical game came at Michigan State, where he set career highs with eight catches for 99 yards and a touchdown. He also contributed consistently as a blocker and on special teams throughout the season.

Barner played in all three of Michigan’s College Football Playoff games, including the Rose Bowl victory over Alabama and the national championship win over Washington.

Awards & Honors (2023)

• Honorable Mention All-Big Ten (coaches and media)

• John Mackey Award semifinalist

• John Mackey Tight End of the Week Honorable Mention (Week 8)

• Academic All-Big Ten

Background & Path to Michigan

• Hometown: Aurora, Ohio

• High School: Aurora High School

• Previous School: Indiana (2020–2022)

  • Appeared in 30 games with nine starts

  • Career at Indiana: 42 receptions, 361 yards, 4 touchdowns

  • Team captain in 2022

Barner entered the transfer portal after the 2022 season and chose Michigan, citing the program’s emphasis on the tight end position.

Legacy at Michigan

Though his Michigan stay lasted only one season, Barner provided size, toughness, and reliability at tight end during a championship year. He was particularly effective as an in-line blocker and showed the ability to contribute in the passing game when targeted.

His presence helped stabilize a tight end room that had seen significant turnover, and he earned the respect of teammates and coaches for his work ethic and physical style of play.

Quick Facts

• Height/Weight: 6-6, 251 lbs

• Position: Tight End

• Jersey: No. 89 (Michigan)

• Drafted: 2024 NFL Draft – Round 4, Pick 121 (Seattle Seahawks)

• Michigan Record: National Champion (2023)