INDIANAPOLIS – While the Colts defense saw significant investment this offseason, the offense received a major boost with the addition of one of the most dynamic tight end seasons college football has seen in recent memory.
Penn State’s Tyler Warren leads the list of offensive additions, with the Colts also using Day 3 of the draft to shore up depth at key positions.
Here’s a breakdown of the Colts’ four offensive draft picks in 2025:
1. Round 1, Pick 14: Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State (6-6, 256)
2024 Stats: Started all 16 games, totaling 104 receptions for 1,233 yards (11.9 avg) and 8 touchdowns.
Career Totals: 56 games (31 starts), 153 catches, 1,839 yards, 19 TDs.
Notable: Set a Big Ten record with 17 receptions for 224 yards in a win at USC.
GM Chris Ballard on Warren: “He’s incredibly versatile—can line up anywhere, thanks to his quarterback background. He’s a physical, tough playmaker who excels in contested catches and after the catch.”
Projection: Warren fills a glaring need at tight end with elite-level production and versatility. His aggressive style and ability to line up in multiple roles should make him a favorite weapon in Shane Steichen’s offense. The Colts have long needed a high-impact tight end, and Warren could finally be that player.
2. Round 4, Pick 127: Jalen Travis, OT, Iowa State (6-8, 339)
2024 Stats: Played in 12 games, starting 11 at left tackle.
Career Totals: 34 games (26 starts), split between right (8) and left tackle (18).
Notable: Holds a Princeton degree in anthropology with a focus in law, politics, and economics, plus a certificate in African American studies.
Ballard’s Take: “He’s incredibly agile for his size—ran a 5.15 at that weight. He’ll bring real competition to the room.”
Projection: The Colts waited until Round 4 to address tackle depth, but Travis brings intriguing upside. With Matt Goncalves potentially shifting to guard and Braden Smith in a contract year, Travis could emerge as a swing tackle or even push for more down the line.
3. Round 5, Pick 151: D.J. Giddens, RB, Kansas State (6-0, 212)
2024 Stats: 205 carries, 1,343 yards, 7 TDs; 21 receptions, 258 yards, 1 TD.
Career Totals: 517 carries, 3,087 yards, 23 TDs; 58 catches, 679 yards, 4 TDs.
Notable: Ranks second all-time at Kansas State with 5.97 yards per carry.
Ballard’s Thoughts: “We love his potential. It’s like that Marlon Mack, Aaron Jones draft class. Giddens just has something. He can help in multiple phases.”
Projection: Giddens profiles as a strong rotational back who could complement the Colts’ current backfield. His balance of production and efficiency makes him a great value pick with three-down upside.
