In a thrilling turn of events at the 2025 NFL Draft, the Indianapolis Colts selected Tyler Warren with the No. 14 overall pick, marking a significant moment for both the franchise and the standout tight end from Penn State. Warren's selection joins fellow Nittany Lion Abdul Carter, who was picked No. 3 overall by the New York Giants, in a remarkable showing for Penn State alumni this draft season.
Warren's historic selection makes him the third-highest drafted tight end in Penn State history, following the legendary Ted Kwalick, who went No. 7 to the San Francisco 49ers in 1969, and Kyle Brady, who was chosen No. 9 by the New York Jets in 1995. These three represent the only Penn State tight ends ever to be selected in the first round, highlighting the program's growing reputation for producing top-tier talent at the position.
Reflecting on his journey, Warren expressed pride in the tradition of excellence established by previous tight ends at Penn State. "I think there’s plenty of tight ends that I played with that I felt were just as good as me and really talented tight ends," Warren stated during Penn State’s pro day. "So just to carry on the tradition of what’s becoming a serious tradition at Penn State in the tight end room is really cool for me, and I take a lot of pride in it."
Warren's breakout season in 2024 solidified his status as a premier prospect. After taking over for Theo Johnson, who was drafted by the New York Giants in the fourth round of the 2025 draft, Warren became the focal point of the Nittany Lions' offense. He amassed an impressive 1,233 receiving yards and eight touchdowns on 104 receptions, leading the team in all three categories. In addition, he showcased his versatility by rushing for 218 yards and four touchdowns on 26 carries and even completed three of his six passing attempts for 35 yards and a touchdown.
While he achieved remarkable individual success, Warren remained focused on the team's goals. "I just know I’m going to be a team player that’s going to come in and do the job and just do whatever I can to help a team win," he remarked, emphasizing his commitment to contributing to the Colts' success.
The Colts, who had a pressing need at the tight end position, found in Warren a player who brings a unique blend of skills and toughness. Colts general manager Chris Ballard emphasized the importance of adding a player with Warren's mentality to the roster. "He brings an element of toughness that I thought we needed to add offensively," Ballard noted, recognizing Warren's ability to impact the game in multiple ways.
Last season, the Colts' tight ends combined for a mere 39 receptions, 467 yards, and just two touchdowns, making Warren's addition crucial for the team's offensive strategy. With the tight end position identified as the biggest hole on the roster, Warren's selection was a calculated move by the Colts, who had been closely monitoring his progress throughout the draft process.
The Colts were fortunate to have Warren available after the Chicago Bears surprised many by selecting Michigan tight end Colston Loveland with the No. 10 pick. Following that, the San Francisco 49ers picked Georgia pass rusher Mykel Williams at No. 11, the Dallas Cowboys chose Alabama guard Tyler Booker at No. 12, and the Miami Dolphins selected Michigan defensive tackle Kenneth Grant at No. 13. This sequence allowed the Colts to secure a player they had identified as one of the safest picks in the draft.
Warren's versatility was a key factor in the Colts' decision to draft him. At Penn State, he lined up at various positions including tight end, slot receiver, fullback, and even Wildcat quarterback, showcasing his ability to adapt to different roles within an offense. Ballard noted that Penn State offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki, who had previously coached Ballard's son, played a significant role in maximizing Warren's potential. "(Kotelnicki) knew he had a unique player, and he found unique ways to use him," Ballard explained.
Warren's football IQ and adaptability were evident throughout his college career. Despite a slow start, where he recorded only 49 receptions in his first 38 games, he exploded during his senior year, finishing tied for the second-most receptions in Division I and ranking seventh in all of college football in receiving yards. His standout performance came against USC on October 12, 2024, where he set a career high with 17 receptions and 224 yards, tying the FBS single-game record for a tight end and accounting for a staggering 43 percent of Penn State's total offense in a thrilling 33-30 overtime victory.
His achievements did not go unnoticed, as Warren was recognized as a First-team All-American, First-team All-Big Ten, and the Big Ten Tight End of the Year in 2024. He also received the prestigious John Mackey Award, given to the most outstanding tight end in college football, and was named offensive MVP in the 2024 Fiesta Bowl.
Warren's background and upbringing have played a significant role in shaping his approach to the game. His father introduced him to the sport by showing him highlight videos of Hall of Fame running back John Riggins when he was just eight years old, instilling in him a tough, no-nonsense mentality. "This is how I want you to run the ball, how I want you to play football," Warren recalled his father saying, a lesson that has clearly resonated throughout his career.
As he prepares to join the Colts, Warren's warrior-like mentality and commitment to excellence will undoubtedly make him a valuable asset to the team. With his ability to line up anywhere on the field and contribute in various ways, he is set to become one of Indianapolis' top offensive weapons. The Colts have high expectations for Warren, and fans are eager to see how he will perform in the upcoming season. The excitement surrounding his arrival is palpable, as he embodies the toughness and versatility that the Colts have been seeking.
