Tyler Warren Drafted by the Colts: A Game-Changing Pick for Indianapolis

The Indianapolis Colts had a plan. They wanted toughness, talent, and versatility. And when their turn came with the No. 14 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, they got exactly that by selecting tight end Tyler Warren.

Warren, last season’s John Mackey Award winner, is already being called one of the most exciting picks in this year’s draft. Colts fans have a lot to cheer about — and so does quarterback Anthony Richardson or Daniel Jones, whoever ends up starting in Week 1.

A Surprise Gift for the Colts

The Colts didn’t expect Warren to be available at pick 14. Other tight ends, like Michigan’s Colston Loveland, were picked earlier. For a moment, it looked like the Colts would miss out again—just like they did with Kyle Pitts in 2021 and Brock Bowers in 2024.

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But the draft took a twist. And suddenly, Tyler Warren was still on the board.

General Manager Chris Ballard didn’t waste time. He picked the tight end who reminded him of Quenton Nelson—a quiet but powerful player. “He adds toughness to our team,” Ballard said. “Sometimes you get lucky. This was one of those times.”

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Who Is Tyler Warren?

Tyler Warren isn’t your average tight end. He played three seasons at Penn State in the background. Then, in 2023, he made a big jump with 34 catches for 412 yards.

But in 2024, he became a star.

• 104 receptions
• 1,233 receiving yards
• 8 touchdowns
• 26 carries for 218 yards and 4 rushing TDs
• 3 completions for 35 yards and 1 passing TD

He even had a record-setting game with 17 catches for 224 yards against Pittman’s alma mater, tying the FBS record for most receptions in a game.

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Warren was the Big Ten leader in receptions, a rare feat for a tight end.

A Perfect Fit in Indianapolis

The Colts haven’t had a top tight end since Jack Doyle retired in 2021. Their last big star at the position was Eric Ebron, who topped 500 yards in 2018.

Warren could change that.

Coach Shane Steichen now has a versatile weapon. Warren can catch, run, block, and even throw. He’s a true Swiss army knife. The Colts believe he can:

• Line up in the backfield
• Win 50-50 catches
• Fight through tackles
• Help in short passes over the middle

Warren’s playing style also fits well with Jonathan Taylor in the backfield and Anthony Richardson’s running threat.

What the Coaches Are Saying

Chris Ballard is thrilled. He compared Warren’s impact to that of Quenton Nelson. That’s high praise.

“He just dominated,” Ballard said, talking about Warren’s huge game against Southern Cal. “They knew he was getting the ball, and they couldn’t stop him.”

Wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. even lobbied for Warren during offseason workouts. Now, the Colts have the guy they wanted—and needed.

Can He Help the Quarterbacks?

The Colts’ passing game ranked 25th in the NFL last season. Their quarterbacks struggled. Anthony Richardson had the lowest completion percentage in the league.

Warren could fix that.

Tight ends are often the best friends of quarterbacks. They are big targets who run short routes in the middle of the field. With Warren on the field, Richardson and Jones will have a safer, easier throw option.

Warren could become the reliable, go-to guy in tough situations.

A Rare Pick for the Colts

The Colts haven’t taken a tight end in the first round since 2003, when they picked Dallas Clark. Clark went on to have over 500 catches and spent nine years with the Colts.

Warren now has the chance to follow in Clark’s footsteps. He brings the same kind of strength, skill, and leadership that Clark once brought to Indy.

FAQs

1. What pick was Tyler Warren in the 2025 NFL Draft?
Tyler Warren was selected by the Indianapolis Colts with the No. 14 overall pick in the first round.

2. What college did Tyler Warren play for?
He played at Penn State, where he broke out as a star tight end in 2024.

3. What makes Tyler Warren special?
Warren is versatile—he can catch, run, block, and even throw. He brings toughness and creativity to the offense.

4. Will Tyler Warren start in his rookie season?
Most likely, yes. The Colts need help at tight end, and Warren is expected to play right away.

5. How will he help the Colts quarterbacks?
Warren provides a safe, big target in the middle of the field—perfect for helping Richardson or Jones complete more passes.