Tyler Warren is an undrafted rookie tight end for the Indianapolis Colts, and he’s been turning heads throughout training camp. So much so, in fact, that his toughness and physicality have wowed players and coaches alike. Warren, who towers at a gargantuan 6-6, 256 pounds, has deservedly received plenty of off-season buzz. His elite body control and high-level catch radius make him a potential offensive game-changer for the Colts.
A one-time undergrad sprinter, the Colts selected Warren with the 14th overall pick—a call the organization’s higher-ups have called an “easy” choice. Warren bounced back with a great senior season at Penn State. He cemented himself as an all-around weapon as he rushed the ball 26 times for 218 yards and four touchdowns. His blocking and receiving talents are elite. As a result, they’ve set the bar extremely high on how well he should do at the NFL level.
Quenton Nelson, a veteran guard for the Colts, expressed his admiration for Warren’s work ethic and commitment to improving his skills.
“After the first camp practice, he’s in there doing bicep curls and some [shoulder] shrugs and triceps,” – Quenton Nelson
Nelson’s statements shed light on the extent of Warren’s meticulous focus on their craft. The first-year player understands that especially blocking’s key, saying,
“It’s part of it, so I think it’s important to embrace it or else you’re going to deal with consequences,” – Tyler Warren
Coaches are confident that Warren’s mentality and physical approach will be contagious and provide the attitude and effort of this team moving forward. He’s unstoppable after the catch, tearing through defenders like all tight ends should. This skill will continue to poverty him as he transitions to a much loaded atmosphere.
“I think for tight ends, especially being able to be in bigger bodies, being able to break tackles is kind of expected when you do get the ball,” – Tyler Warren
Warren’s skills extend beyond blocking. He possesses natural instincts that allow him to navigate the field effectively after making a catch. Ed Dodds, the Colts’ assistant general manager, emphasized Warren’s ability to weave through defenders.
“When he catches a ball, it’s just those natural instincts to weave it,” – Ed Dodds
The 1st-round picks limitless catch radius and great, big hands have turned plenty of heads all camp. He soon became the talk of the town thanks to one jaw-dropping highlight. He caught an overthrown ball out of the air with one hand! Those acts of athleticism only further validate the Colts’ prediction that he would be dangerous in space.
Warren’s training camp performances have included diving catches across the middle of the field, showcasing his willingness to put his body on the line for crucial plays. Warren is getting used to the speed and physicality of the NFL game. He’s trying to perfect his placement of hands, an essential aspect that applies to blocking and pass catching.
“Even in college, a little missed hand placement’s going to get you beat,” – Tyler Warren
His approach is just like a boxer, Dodds said, referring to the importance of being the first to punch.
“I always kind of think it’s like a boxer: He who makes first contact usually wins. So, it’s just getting better with his hands, which he is… The good ones, they always initiate that contact and see the initiative.” – Ed Dodds
As training camp marches on, Warren is still turning heads and wowing coaches and teammates. The Colts said they want to get him involved in tight end screens. On offense, they want to use his agility and catching skills–especially against big defenders–to produce mismatches. And with each practice, he reinforces why he is one of the most important assets for this team in the long-haul.
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