The Indianapolis Colts have not had a prominent tight end since Dallas Clark, and he was released way back in 2012. Since Clark, the Colts have been looking for their next big playmaker at tight end. Although many have showed promise, none have showed consistency. Going into the 2024 season, however, Will Mallory could be the dark horse the Colts need.
In 2023, the Colts tight ends unit was one of the worst offensive units on the team. They had four different guys suit up and only accumulated 883 yards on 70 receptions and six touchdowns. It does need to be noted that Jelani Woods was sidelined the entire season due to a nagging hamstring injury. He was supposed to be the teams number one tight end and with his loss, the entire unit seemed lost. Each tight end, who was able to play, did display some glimpses of promise and potential. However, Mallory could have the edge on being a playmaker with the most promise and potential for the Colts.
How Will Mallory Can Be the Dark Horse Candidate the Colts Need
His Playmaking Ability Transitioned Well from College to the NFL
In his last season at the University of Miami, Will Mallory led all receivers on the team in receptions with 42 and yards with 538. He was second on the team in touchdown receptions with three. Typically, this much production on a team is accomplished by wide receivers. However, Mallory showcased that he can be the best receiver on the team. He also demonstrated explosive capabilities with 12.8 yards per reception. With his 6-foot, 4-inch, and 240-pound frame, he has the strength and length to go up against linebackers and the secondary. He is also fast for a tight end, as he posted a 4.5 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine.
During his rookie year in the NFL, Mallory started out fourth on the depth chart. After Jelani Wood’s injury and rotating players around, Mallory blossomed into being second amongst the Colts tight ends in receptions with 18 and yards with 207. He also had 11 first downs and a catch percentage of 69.2%. Needless to say, Mallory’s rookie campaign can be defined as productive and promising. It will be interesting to see where he ends up on the depth chart following training camp. However, he has proven that his skill set has transitioned well into the NFL.
He Shapes Up Well Against His Teammates
The Colts find themselves in an interesting situation as they have five tight ends on their roster who have seen considerable playing time and demonstrated the skills to be a potential number one. That being said, though, Jelani Woods is the frontrunner to be the number one tight end. However, number two and three are up for grabs with Kylen Granson, Mo Alie-Cox, Drew Ogletree, and Will Mallory.
This will be the intriguing battle during training camp. Alie-Cox is the veteran tight end of the bunch and he has showcased his consistency as a solid blocking tight end. However, he has not been explosive in the passing game. Kylen Granson led the team in yards and receptions last year. Though, he never turned into the number one guy. Drew Ogletree probably has more upside than Granson, as he is bigger and displays more power at the position. That just leaves Will Mallory, who has the most upside and potential out of the three just mentioned. He has the size and the quickness to be great in this offense.
Main Image: Bob Scheer – USA Today Sports
