Overview
- Seattle has deployed a rugby-style short-yardage play with tight end A.J. Barner taking direct snaps, converting 10 of 11 attempts including a touchdown, according to reporting.
- Head coach Mike Macdonald proposed the wrinkle after Klint Kubiak became offensive coordinator, selecting Barner for his 6-foot-6, 250-plus build and high school quarterback experience.
- During the play, running backs and fullbacks provide the push from behind as starting quarterback Sam Darnold aligns away from the pile to avoid extra contact.
- NFL owners were two votes short of banning tush-push style plays last spring, and a potential prohibition is expected to be revisited in offseason meetings.
- Barner has emerged as a versatile tight end with 2025 totals around 52–53 receptions, 519 yards and six touchdowns, and he says he aims to be viewed among the league’s best at the position.