The tight end position for the Indianapolis Colts is a bit in flux entering free agency and the 2024 offseason.
Starter Mo Alie-Cox hasn’t proven to be a difference-maker while his run-blocking abilities seem to have plateaued. Kylen Granson is a nice H-back and receiving option to have. Jelani Woods missed the entire season due to a hamstring injury, and Andrew Ogletree’s future with the team is in serious question after being placed on the Comissioner Exempt List.
Rookie Will Mallory showed some upside as a receiver, but he didn’t factor much into the plans for the majority of the season.
Though drafting a tight end may certainly be on the docket for Indy, adding a viable veteran in free agency is an option as well. Finding a true Y tight end who can run block with consistency while adding some upside as a receiver should be the objective.
This position isn’t a major need for the Colts, but it would help the development of young quarterback Anthony Richardson.
We should note that we understand a some of these players won’t even hit the market, but we’re working under the hypothetical scenario that they become available, regardless of how slim the chances are.
Here are five free-agent tight ends the Colts should target in 2024:
1
Adam Trautman
Previous Team: Denver Broncos
Known for his above-average run blocking, Trautman would be the ideal signing. A low-cost option, Trautman could work in line as an extension of the offensive line while providing aid as a checkdown option over the middle. He’s a superb athlete with elite change-of-direction skills and could compete for the starting Y role immediately.
2
Colby Parkinson
Previous Team: Seattle Seahawks
Far from a flashy name, Parkinson was one of the league’s best run-blockers at the tight end position during the 2023 season. He’s extremely versatile with the ability to line up in line, in the slot or out wide if needed. Parkinson is a reliable target in the passing even if he’s a bit uninspiring after the catch.
3
Drew Sample
Previous Team: Cincinnati Bengals
Sample is more of a typical in line, Y tight end option for the Colts. He may not be as strong of a run blocker as the other options listed, but he makes up for it as a receiver. Among tight ends with at least 25 targets, Sample’s 7.8 yards after the catch per reception ranked as the top mark, according to Pro Football Focus.
4
Charlie Woerner
Previous Team: San Francisco 49ers
Woerner works best as a rotational tight end focusing solely on run blocking. He doesn’t offer much at all as a receiver considering his 11 career receptions, but he’s one of the best run-blocking tight ends in the NFL. This is especially true on zone-blocking concepts.
5
Johnny Mundt
Previous Team: Minnesota Vikings
An all-around solid blocker, Mundt spends the majority of his snaps as an in-line tight end with the occasional appearances in the slot and out wide. He’s likely best used as a checkdown option in the receiving game. He’s also a strong contributor on special teams.
