Tyler Warren and fellow Colts rookie look like they can be true difference makers after their impressive NFL preseason debut

   

The Indianapolis Colts had a lot of ups and downs during their preseason opener vs. the Baltimore Ravens. Some low moments included Anthony Richardson leaving early with a finger injury. The worst news of the day came after the game, learning that rookie Justin Walley will miss the entire season with a torn ACL. It wasn't all bad for the Colts yesterday, though, as they got to see their first two selections in the 2025 NFL Draft step up to the plate and show they belong at this level.

Tyler Warren and fellow Colts rookie look like they can be true difference makers after their impressive NFL preseason debut

Tyler Warren shines in minimal snaps

The Colts' first round didn't have to play very long yesterday to impress all those watching on. Tyler Warren caught all three of his targets for 40 yards, and he had another catch called back due to a flag. He showed that his strong start in training isn't just a mirage. He moved very smoothly out there, and his hands are as reliable as they come. It was also good to see he was a big part of the offense with both Richardson and Daniel Jones in at QB. The Colts believe they now have one of the few true game changers at the TE position, and the preseason opener just might have confirmed those beliefs.

J.T. Tuimoloau showed he can be a dominant forcWasn't


Rafael Suanes-Imagn Images

Wasn’t the only rookie who stepped up yesterday, in fact, the Colts' second-round pick J.T. Tuimoloau had the best game of any Colts player. He finished the game with one sack, two tackles for loss, a pass deflection, and a forced fumble; talk about a stat sheet stuffer. The Colts' edge room has a lot of bodies expected to see a significant snap count this season: Laiatu Latu, Kwity Paye, and Samson Ebukam. Last night, I thought Tuimoloau showed he also needs to be in that conversation, and I fully expect him to have a decent-sized role during his rookie season.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.