During a pivotal Thursday night practice under the lights, Indianapolis Colts tight end Will Mallory emerged as a significant standout, showcasing impressive receiving skills by hauling in passes from both Anthony Richardson and Daniel Jones. This singular performance illuminated his potential and offered a glimpse into his development within the Colts’ dynamic offensive scheme.

Beyond that specific highlight, Head Coach Shane Steichen has consistently expressed satisfaction with Mallory’s progressive growth throughout the offseason and into the rigorous demands of training camp. Steichen’s observations underscore a sustained improvement, suggesting a player who is diligently refining his craft and adapting to the professional level.

Reflecting on Mallory’s collegiate profile, Steichen noted, “Obviously, he’s a guy that when we saw him coming out of college a couple years ago, good route runner, good hands, and then to see it progress over the last couple of years.” This continuity in his fundamental skills, coupled with observed advancements, speaks to Mallory’s consistent dedication and ability to translate potential into on-field execution.

Entering the current training camp, Mallory has demonstrated an acute understanding of various routes, exhibiting a “really good feel, a good knack” for their execution. Crucially, he has consistently made “tight window catches” – a non-negotiable skill in the high-pressure environment of the NFL, where contested catches often dictate success in critical moments.

These impactful training camp performances are not isolated incidents but rather build upon a foundation laid during earlier phases of the team’s preparations, including Organized Team Activities (OTAs) and minicamp. Mallory actively capitalized on opportunities during these sessions, accumulating valuable repetitions that further honed his abilities and prepared him for the increased intensity of camp.

Despite his current promising trajectory, Mallory’s initial two NFL seasons, since being drafted in the fifth round in 2023, have seen minimal playing time. This includes a limited 93 offensive snaps in 2024 and a modest total of eight targets, indicating a period of acclimatization and development away from the immediate spotlight.

Looking ahead to the Colts’ 2025 tight end room, Mallory appears poised to fulfill a specialized pass-catching role. While teammates like Tyler Warren offer a versatile, do-it-all presence, and veterans Mo Alie-Cox and Drew Ogletree are primarily block-first options, Mallory’s distinct skill set positions him as the primary aerial threat among the group.

The Colts’ offensive strategy is expected to prominently feature two-tight end sets. In these formations, particularly on run-heavy downs, Alie-Cox or Ogletree may be paired with Warren. However, when the coaching staff prioritizes an enhanced pass-catching presence on the field, the unique capabilities of Will Mallory are likely to be strategically deployed, offering a crucial dimension to the passing game.