Maybe I'm off base in thinking this, but I think that AJ is in NO WAY a possible candidate to "replace" Tony. AJ's never been into that life, Tony does not want him in that life, and Carm would certainly not let it happen.AJ is his son - he is not a potential heir.
That's what it seems like, but remember last season before he met the hot Puerto Rican. He was becoming real popular, and going clubbing in NY. If something happens with the gf, and she disappeared, I could easily see him getting into the life. Tony can't really trust Christopher, besides he's not around much anymore.
I fail to see how going to clubs and becoming popular even begins to qualify him to be the boss of the New Jersey mafia.Tony may not be able to trust Christopher - I agree with that, I just don't agree that that has anything to do with AJ. Tony need someone as a buffer & heir apparent does not mean he's going to pull his son into this life who, let's face it, has been a #### up at pretty much everything he's ever tried to do.In short, AJ is not that kinda guy - he never has been. And even if they made him become one, which would be pretty shocking considering how long and to what extent these characters have been defined and grown, Tony does not want him to be involved, nor does he think his son is capable of doing anything of note in this area, nevermind the BOSS. It's just not an angle I see.