Training camp is barely underway for the Indianapolis Colts, but rookie tight end Tyler Warren is already getting comfortable in the offense.
The first-round pick out of Penn State made a quiet entrance on Day 1 of camp. Since then, he’s shown why the franchise brought him to Indianapolis.
“Strong hands,” ESPN’s Stephen Holder wrote.
“It’s a quality the Colts were drawn to when they scouted the former Penn State star who they ultimately selected with the 14th overall pick. And it’s a characteristic that should make Warren a popular target.”
Warren made two standout catches during Thursday’s session — one from Anthony Richardson and another from Daniel Jones. Neither pass was especially accurate, but Warren hauled both in with ease. It was a small glimpse into what Colts brass believed when they scouted him.
Warren’s the type of generational player at his position who can bring strong, steady hands to an offense that needs them.
“Something we thought was a real strength of his was his hands, his ability to focus, concentrate and make those tough catches,” offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter said. “He’s a very uniquely-talented, uniquely-skilled young man… That’s what you need in this league. Coverage is going to be tight. The passes are going to have to be in different areas. You’re going to have to make some of those tough, strong-handed catches and really focus on finishing.”
Warren has already shown that focus in camp. And for a team still deciding how to unlock its offensive identity, his presence gives them options.
Colts Needed A Go-To Weapon At TE
The Colts lacked consistent production at tight end last season. The group rotated through Kylen Granson, Mo Alie-Cox, and Drew Ogletree in 2024, but no one emerged as a true No. 1 option. Warren looks to command that role quickly.
He offers a big target (6-foot-6, 257 pounds) with the catch radius and toughness to win contested balls, something that matters in tight red-zone windows and on third downs.
He’s also a natural fit for a Colts offense looking to mix tempo and spread the field. With Richardson entering Year 3 and Jones in the fold as insurance, having a pass catcher who can adjust mid-route, extend plays, and work the middle of the field is crucial.
Warren ticks those boxes. He’s not really a burner at the NFL level the way he was at PSU, but he doesn’t need to be. His value comes in reliability. And that’s exactly what Richardson and Jones will need as camp ramps up.
What’s Next?
In just the first few days of camp, Warren has already positioned himself as a favorite target for both quarterbacks. The Colts are still evaluating their QB depth chart, but one thing is clear — both passers are already leaning on Warren in key spots.
Richardson appears to have taken the lead in the QB battle, but Jones isn’t going anywhere.
Whether it’s Richardson continuing his development or Jones looking to prove his value after arriving this offseason, a tight end who can erase errant throws and convert chain-moving plays is gold.
Warren has also caught the attention of his coaches with how quickly he’s picked up the system.
It’s early, but Warren is trending toward a major role for the Colts offense in Year 1.
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