Indianapolis Colts’ tight end Tyler Warren hit the ground running during his rookie season.
Warren finished second on the team in targets with 106 on the season. He hauled in 76 of those passes for 817 yards with four touchdowns.
Among all tight ends league-wide, Warren was tied for sixth in receptions and was fifth in receiving yards, according to Pro Football Focus.
So after what was already a highly impressive first NFL season, what’s next for the Colts’ Pro Bowl tight end?
“I think just little things,” coach Shane Steichen said after Monday’s practice. “Obviously going into year two, working on his body and just getting in great physical shape and coming in and out of breaks. He’s made some good plays out here in practice and 7-on-7 some team situations. So looking for the next steps in his development as well this year.”
Warren also recently discussed where he wants to improve in Year 2, mentioning his ability to hold space within the route to maintain separation.
Steichen also added that Warren continuing to make plays in the red zone will be important as well.
“Continue to grow and continue to make plays like he’s been doing the red zone period right there,” said Steichen.
While, naturally, Warren’s impact in the passing game will garner the most attention, his ability as a blocker is very valuable as well. When a tight end has a well-rounded skill set, as Warren does, it adds a new dimension to an offense with that player able to shoulder a variety of roles.
Warren already saw a lot of passes come his way as a rookie, but his role within the offense should continue to expand in Michael Pittman’s absence, whether that be in target share or what’s asked of him from a route-running standpoint within the offense.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Steichen on next steps for Colts Tyler Warren after impressive Year 1
Reporting by Paul Bretl, Colts Wire / Colts Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
