Tyler Warren, the standout tight end from Penn State, has emerged as one of the most intriguing prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft. Standing at 6’6″ and weighing 260 pounds, Warren possesses the ideal physical attributes for the modern NFL tight end.
Athletic Background and Versatility
Warren’s journey to becoming an elite tight end prospect is unique. He began his football career as a high school quarterback before transitioning to tight end at Penn State. This background as a signal-caller has significantly contributed to his football intelligence and versatility on the field. Warren’s multi-sport background in high school, where he lettered in football, basketball, and baseball, has undoubtedly enhanced his overall athleticism and body control.
College Production and Records
Warren’s collegiate career at Penn State was nothing short of spectacular, particularly his senior season in 2024. He shattered school records for tight ends, finishing his career with 22 total touchdowns. His final season was particularly impressive, as he recorded 104 receptions for 1,233 yards and 8 touchdowns. This production not only set Penn State records but also established Warren as one of the most productive tight ends in college football history.
Receiving Skills
Warren’s receiving ability is his most prominent strength. He possesses a large catch radius and excellent ball-tracking skills, allowing him to effectively high-point passes. His route-running, while still developing, shows promise, particularly in finding soft spots in zone coverage and maintaining leverage against man-to-man defense. Warren’s ability to create separation and make plays after the catch is evident in his impressive average of 11.9 yards per reception in his senior year.
Versatility and Offensive Weapon
One of Warren’s most appealing traits is his versatility. He has experience lining up in multiple positions, including inline, in the slot, and even in the backfield. This alignment flexibility makes him a valuable chess piece for offensive coordinators, allowing for creative play designs and mismatches against defenders. Warren’s ability to contribute in the running game is also noteworthy, as he rushed for 218 yards and 4 touchdowns on 26 carries in his senior season.
Blocking and Physical Play
While Warren’s blocking technique needs refinement, scouts have noted his competitive toughness and willingness to engage in physical play. His size and frame suggest potential for improvement in this area with proper NFL coaching. Developing his functional strength and blocking technique will be crucial for Warren to become a complete tight end at the professional level.
NFL Draft Projection
Warren’s draft stock has been on the rise, with many experts projecting him as a first-round selection. Dane Brugler’s mock draft has Warren going as high as No. 14 to the Indianapolis Colts. His combination of size, athleticism, and production make him an attractive option for teams looking to add a dynamic weapon to their offense.
Areas for Improvement
Despite his impressive skill set, Warren still has room for growth. His route-running, while effective, could use more nuance and detail. As a tall, long-legged athlete, he sometimes experiences slight stiffness at his route breaks, which could be exploited by NFL defenders. Additionally, his inline blocking skills need development to reach his full potential as a complete tight end.
Pro Comparison and Projection
NFL scout Dame Parson has compared Warren to former Pro Bowl tight end Greg Olsen. This comparison speaks to Warren’s potential as a reliable target in the passing game and his ability to stretch the field vertically. With his combination of size, athleticism, and receiving skills, Warren has the potential to become a matchup nightmare for NFL defenses and a valuable red-zone threat.
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Conclusion
Tyler Warren enters the 2025 NFL Draft as one of the most promising tight end prospects in recent years. His unique background as a former quarterback, combined with his exceptional physical tools and production at Penn State, make him a highly coveted prospect. While there are areas of his game that need refinement, particularly his blocking and route-running details, Warren’s ceiling as an NFL player is tremendously high.
Teams looking for a dynamic, versatile tight end who can contribute immediately in the passing game while possessing the potential to develop into a complete player will find Warren an attractive option. His draft stock suggests he could be selected in the first round, potentially as high as the middle of the round. With the right coaching and development, Tyler Warren has the potential to become a Pro Bowl-caliber tight end and a cornerstone piece for an NFL offense for years to come.
