Indianapolis Colts: 5 Free agents to sign before training camp
By Samuel Teets
4. Delanie Walker, TE
At this point, Delanie Walker won’t produce 800 yards through the air each year. However, teams still respect him as one of the best run-blocking tight ends in the NFL. That’s where he can contribute immediately for Indianapolis. As the Colts try to make a playoff push with the aging Philip Rivers, the running game can’t disappoint. Walker can act like another lineman on the field.
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The Colts need another multi-faceted tight end on the depth chart. Jack Doyle currently fills the team’s most significant role at tight end. He made Pro Bowls in 2017 and 2019 but missed ten games in 2018. While Doyle won’t go for over 1,000 yards, he is another one of the best run-blockers in the NFL. He and Walker could form a dynamic duo in running situations.
The other significant tight end on Indy’s roster is Trey Burton. The former Super Bowl champion signed a one-year, $910,000 deal with the Colts in April. Burton derives from the same class of tight ends as Evan Engram and Jordan Reed. He’s more of a receiver and doesn’t offer much in terms of blocking or resistance against linemen and linebackers.
The Colts will find a role for Burton this coming season, but he can’t replace Eric Ebron’s production alone. Ebron produced 97 receptions for 1,125 yards and 16 touchdowns over the past two seasons. The 2018 Pro Bowler signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers in free agency. He left a role on the Colts that Burton and Walker could fill together.