Later in his career, Barkum transitioned to the Tight End position, remaining a viable go-to receiver for the Jets offense.

In his career, Barkum recorded 40 touchdown receptions, but was noted for rarely spiking the football at a time when such celebrations were increasingly frequent.

Barkum's most memorable catch in the NFL was made in Shea Stadium in a 1981 clash against the Miami Dolphins in the last seconds of the game to lift the Jets to victory 16–15.

[2] Roughly one month later, the Washington Redskins brought Barkum to camp for a tryout in the wake of several injuries,[3] but he was officially cut on August 28, 1984.

[4] In 2013, Barkum founded and became CEO of Smooth Jams Jazz on Roku TV and via website apps.