Colts Rookie Tight End Tyler Warren Gaining Momentum as Key Offensive Piece in Early Training Camp

Tyler Warren entered the NFL with the pressure of being a first-round pick and the excitement of joining a young, evolving Indianapolis Colts offense. Through the first weeks of training camp, the rookie tight end is starting to find his fit—not just as a new face in the locker room but as a legitimate offensive weapon carving out a role in Shane Steichen’s fast-paced, hybrid system. As Warren continues to gain trust from coaches, teammates, and quarterback Anthony Richardson, it’s becoming increasingly clear that the Colts have big plans for the former Penn State standout.

Warren arrived in Indianapolis with high expectations, hailed as one of the most complete tight ends in the 2025 NFL Draft class. Known in college for his combination of size, hands, and positional versatility, Warren showcased a rare skillset that had evaluators projecting him as an immediate contributor at the next level. He could block in-line with toughness, run routes from the slot, and even take direct snaps in wildcat packages. That kind of flexibility was a key reason the Colts used their first-round selection to bring him into the fold. Early into training camp, that decision is already starting to pay dividends.

At six-foot-five and 250 pounds, Warren looks the part. But what’s separating him from other rookie tight ends isn’t just his frame—it’s his ability to mentally process the playbook, adapt on the fly, and earn the trust of his quarterback. Richardson, now in his third season and locked in a training camp battle for the starting job with veteran Daniel Jones, has taken notice of Warren’s steady rise. The two have started to build chemistry during red-zone drills and situational scrimmages, where Warren has shown a knack for settling into soft spots in coverage and using his body to shield defenders. That trait is already earning him targets, especially in tight spaces where a big, reliable option makes all the difference.

Warren’s early performances at camp have been marked by consistency and flashes of high-level potential. In one 11-on-11 drill during the second padded practice, Warren caught three passes in a single series, including a toe-tapping grab on the sideline and a quick seam route where he split two linebackers for a gain of 20. Coaches were vocal with praise, applauding not just the physical execution, but the route timing and communication with the quarterback pre-snap. It’s the kind of attention to detail that bodes well for Warren’s chances of seeing real playing time early in the season.

Veteran tight end Mo Alie-Cox, a longtime fixture in the Colts’ tight end room, has been mentoring Warren and likes what he sees. According to those close to the team, Alie-Cox has said Warren is “already operating like a pro” and praised his study habits and ability to take coaching. Warren, for his part, has credited the veterans and coaching staff for helping him transition from college to the pro game. In interviews, he’s been humble but confident, acknowledging that the speed of the game is an adjustment but stressing that he’s leaning on preparation to close the gap.

Offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter is already scheming ways to take advantage of Warren’s versatility. In some practice periods, the Colts have lined up Warren in motion, placed him in the backfield, and even had him line up split wide in a four-receiver look. The goal is clear: maximize matchups. If Warren draws linebackers, he has the speed and agility to win in space. If he draws safeties or corners, his frame and strength give him the upper hand. That chess piece value is something few rookies bring to the table, and it could make Warren a central figure in Indianapolis’s game plan earlier than expected.

In the red zone, where the Colts struggled for consistency last year, Warren’s presence could be a game-changer. With his height and catch radius, he provides a perfect target for fade routes and contested throws. During goal-line drills, Warren has already hauled in multiple touchdowns, including one acrobatic catch over a leaping defender that brought a rare cheer from both the offense and defense. That moment felt like a microcosm of Warren’s camp: quiet consistency, punctuated by plays that remind everyone why he was a first-round pick.

Beyond the physical tools, what’s impressed coaches the most is Warren’s approach. He’s meticulous in the film room, often staying late to review his reps and get extra work with position coaches. His attention to detail, especially in blocking technique and route depth, has set him apart from other rookies. For a young player trying to establish himself in the NFL, that maturity is invaluable. Coaches know that rookies who treat preparation seriously tend to adjust faster and contribute sooner.

The Colts are also considering Warren’s impact on the running game. While he was primarily used as a receiving threat in college, Warren has demonstrated the willingness and technique to hold his ground as a blocker. In practice sessions focused on the run game, he’s handled edge defenders with surprising poise. That development could be key, especially if the Colts continue to emphasize the ground game with Jonathan Taylor and aim to build play-action opportunities for their quarterbacks.

Another area where Warren is starting to shine is in tempo situations. During hurry-up periods and simulated end-of-half drives, Warren has consistently found ways to get open and keep the chains moving. That ability to stay productive without needing to come off the field makes him incredibly valuable to a coaching staff that values tempo and flexibility. If he continues on this path, Warren may end up being one of the few rookie tight ends who don’t just play on third downs or in specific packages—but as an every-down contributor.

Inside the locker room, Warren is earning respect. Teammates describe him as quiet, focused, and competitive. He’s not one to draw attention to himself, but his effort and execution are turning heads. Colts defensive players have taken notice, too. Linebackers tasked with covering him in drills have admitted that Warren’s combination of quickness off the line and physical finish makes him one of the tougher covers in camp. That kind of respect from defenders is meaningful, especially for a rookie.

As the Colts continue through training camp and head toward preseason matchups, Warren’s development will remain a key storyline. The tight end room is crowded with veterans and returning contributors, but there’s no denying that Warren is making his case—not just as a complementary piece, but as a player who could reshape what the Colts expect from the position. If he continues to show up in team periods, convert critical plays, and build chemistry with the quarterbacks, he may start the season not as a developmental prospect but as a featured part of the offense.

There’s still a long way to go before the regular season, and Warren will need to maintain his level of play as the competition heats up. Mistakes will come, as they do for every rookie, but the way he’s carrying himself and responding to coaching suggests he’s built for the grind. More than that, he’s thriving in it.

For a franchise looking to return to playoff contention and build around a young core, the emergence of Tyler Warren couldn’t come at a better time. In a league where tight ends often take years to develop, Warren is wasting no time in showing he belongs. With each day of camp, the Colts’ investment in him looks smarter, and his place in the offense feels more secure. If early signs hold true, Warren won’t just find his fit—he’ll become a cornerstone of the Colts’ future.