Tyler Warren was just what the doctor ordered. The Indianapolis Colts had an incredible deficiency at the tight end position and he single-handedly lifted the entire unit. He showed what a unique talent he is and why the Colts were lucky to get him in the draft. His skill set is undeniable, and his future appears incredibly bright. His rookie year wasn’t without ups and downs, however, and when looking at his stats, it begs the question, did Warren run out of gas or was his second half a product
of circumstances?
Over the first half of the season, Warren averaged nearly 62 yards per game and had three receiving touchdowns. Torrid might not be the correct word, but it was an excellent start. After the Berlin game and subsequent bye, the numbers plummeted. He had one touchdown to his name and averaged just 28.5 yards per contest. He faded into the background along with the rest of the team.
Did he hit the rookie wall and run out of steam or was he a victim of a seven game losing streak that saw three quarterbacks under center? It is probably a little of both. The transition from college to the pros is intense. It’s more grueling physically and mentally. Many rookies find themselves fading down the stretch. Going from a quarterback with a broken fibula, to a 45-year-old retired Philip Rivers, to a rookie, is simply asking too much. Producing under those circumstances paired with your first taste of the NFL is a Herculean undertaking.
What we saw from Tyler Warren in 2025 was encouraging, yet his fall was to be expected. The good news is that things are looking up from here. A big time jump in his second year with an entire offseason under his belt should be the expectation. Getting consistent quarterback play will go a long way too. Warren appears to be the type that as he develops, he can help out any quarterback under center. He will be that release valve and safety net. Quality quarterback play will help, but Warren should continue to thrive regardless.
