Colts TE Tyler Warren Exits Joint Practice With Groin Injury After 76-Catch Season

Indianapolis Colts tight end Tyler Warren, the No. 14 pick in 2025, sustained a groin injury during a joint practice with the Atlanta Falcons.

Indianapolis Colts tight end Tyler Warren sustained a groin injury during Wednesday's joint practice against the Atlanta Falcons in Westfield, Indiana. The 2025 No. 14 overall draft pick did not return to the session after exiting the field with trainers for treatment in a medical tent. Warren later reappeared on the sidelines with a wrap applied to his right upper thigh area. This development follows a rookie campaign in which Warren led the team as their most targeted pass catcher, recording 76 receptions.

Head coach Shane Steichen did not provide specific details regarding the severity of the ailment but indicated the organization intends to exercise caution with the standout performer. The injury occurred as Warren was building on a training camp performance that established him as a primary target for quarterback Daniel Jones. During the practice session, Jones personally checked on the tight end's status following the medical intervention.

Impact on Colts Receiving Corps

The loss of Warren adds to existing depth concerns within the Indianapolis passing game. The team is currently operating without top wide receiver Alec Pierce, who remains sidelined following offseason ankle surgery. Warren’s absence leaves a void in a position group that features four players likely to secure spots on the final roster. While Warren has been a standout in camp, the team must now look to other options to maintain offensive rhythm during the remainder of the preseason schedule.

Veteran tight ends Mo Alie-Cox and Drew Ogletree remain available, though their primary roles within the Colts' offensive scheme are centered on blocking. In contrast, 2023 fifth-round selection Will Mallory has emerged as a viable receiving threat during the current camp. Mallory recently led Indianapolis with six receptions for 80 yards during the team's preseason opener against the New England Patriots last week.

Roster Dynamics and Camp Performance

Warren’s injury interrupts a period where he appeared well in sync with Daniel Jones, solidifying his role as a starter. The Colts' tight end room is currently divided between specialized blockers and receiving threats, with Warren serving as the premier option in the latter category. The team has not yet released a timeline for his return to full participation in team drills or upcoming exhibition contests.

Stephen Holder reported the incident at 7:28 PM ET on August 19, 2026, noting that the injury took place during the collaborative session with Atlanta. The Colts are navigating these personnel challenges as they evaluate the back end of their roster. With Pierce also unavailable, the coaching staff is forced to adjust their rotations among the pass-catching unit. The performance of Will Mallory in the previous game against New England provides a statistical baseline for the depth available while Warren recovers from the groin strain. Steichen’s cautious approach suggests the team will prioritize long-term health over immediate practice repetitions as the regular season approaches.