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AJ Barner raves about two Michigan defenders, talks offense

Chris Balasby:Chris Balas•08/18/23•

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Grant Newsome
(Zach Libby/The Wolverine)

Michigan tight end AJ Barner is fitting in perfectly with his new teammates after transferring from Indiana, and he’s been an outstanding addition. He’s added to the elite talent in the room and will see plenty of playing time along with sophomore Colston Loveland. The two have continued to push each other, Barner said Friday, and practice observers say they could be as good a duo as any in the country. 

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Barner wasn’t a huge part of the Indiana offense last year, but he had the potential to be. He’s big, got strong hands, and can run. He’s also picked up the offense quickly and knows the importance of blocking, something he’s improved on dramatically since he arrived in Ann Arbor — even against some of the elite Michigan defenders.

“I kind of knew what I was walking into, I think. I think the amount of really talented football players on this team at every position is three guys deep,” Barner said. “So, that’s been a pleasant surprise, for sure. I’m extremely grateful to be here. So many blessings when you come into this program.

“When I was at Indiana, I had two offensive coordinators, so I had to learn some different things there. But I think Coach [Grant] Newsome is doing a tremendous job … he harps on the details, is always there to take the extra time if we need to go over something. Having him has been extremely helpful … all the tight ends, [J.J.] McCarthy, all those guys have been there to help me, also. I feel I’m at the point know where I’m really comfortable with everything.”

That includes going up against some elite pass rushers and run defenders. The Michigan defensive line has reportedly gotten the better of the o-line in recent practices, but it’s strength vs. strength. Two players in particular have brought out the best in him, Barner Said. Interior lineman Kris Jenkins and edge Jaylen Harrell continue to make him better. 

He called the latter the most dominant player in camp, to date. 

“I would say I’ve seen a lot … but just going up against him every day, Jaylen is a really good player,” Barner said. “Kris Jenkins is a very good player. But this team is so deep that It’s just somebody might make a great play on one play, the next play just get beat just because everyone is very, very good. Me going against the D-linemen a lot, they’ve stood out to me.

“I wouldn’t say ‘give me trouble,’ but I definitely love going up against Kris and Jaylen just because I know I have to bring it. We all make each other better. I’d. seen [Jenkins] on tape and whatnot but didn’t really know how great a player he is. The energy he brings, the physicality he brings, the way he attacks every day is just a huge thing for this program. Kris is one of those guys, but many other guys that do it the same way. It’s just a pleasure for me to be around him, and I strive to be better because of the way he plays, also.”

But the leadership isn’t limited to just him, Barner clarified. He’s part of a loaded team, and he can’t wait to see how well they jell. 

“Very dangerous,” Barner said of the offense. “Having J.J. [McCarthy] back there slinging the rock, he was incredible all spring. He’s a tremendous leader, football player. The O-line has looked incredible and is going to give us time to do that. then we have plenty of weapons whether on the perimeter with CJ (Cornelius Johnson), Roman [Wilson], the freshman receivers and the tight ends, also. I think that will be a great thing for us.’

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