Week 2 of the Colts’ preseason vs. Green Bay will center on the Anthony Richardson–Daniel Jones duel, but several hidden battles could shape the 53-man roster. Austin Ajiake is pushing for a linebacker role alongside Zaire Franklin, with coach Lou Anarumo pointing to a revolving door at the position and Ajiake’s prior camp work on special teams hinting at a possible path to snaps beyond routine reserve duties.

In the passing game, Will Mallory has emerged as a reliable receiving alternative at tight end, potentially teaming with two-TE sets in pass-heavy looks as Mo Alie-Cox and Drew Ogletree anchor blocking duties. On the perimeter, Alex Johnson and Johnathan Edwards highlight the CB competition opposite Charvarius Ward’s likely foil, with Sam Womack and injuries to JuJu Brents and Jaylon Jones opening up opportunities. The defense and special-teams units will be watching these battles closely as Indianapolis builds depth this preseason.

Meanwhile, veterans like Jelani Woods and Jelani Woods’ peers show the Colts’ long-term planning: Woods as a dynamic receiving option, Mallory as a complementary pass-catcher, and Ajiake as a special-teams contributor who could carve a niche if linebacking depth settles in his favor. The quarterback-receiver mix remains the marquee story, but the steps of Ajiake, Mallory, and the CB options will influence early-season rotations and depth-chart decisions.

The Indianapolis Colts' tight end group, highlighted by the addition of Tyler Warren, is anticipated to rejuvenate the team's passing game, which suffered last season with only 467 combined receiving yards from the entire roster. Warren, known for his significant size and agility, is expected to become a pivotal offensive weapon, particularly against defenses in the middle of the field.

Alongside Warren, the Colts have a mix of experienced tight ends like Mo Alie-Cox and Drew Ogletree, who excel in blocking roles, while Will Mallory and Jelani Woods are more suited for receiving. The new offensive scheme under Shane Steichen, which frequently employs two-tight-end sets, provides room for diverse strategies and playcalling, although the competition for a final roster spot among these players remains fierce.

The Indianapolis Colts are in dire need of a tight end as they head into the NFL Draft. Despite free agency having passed without upgrades at the position, reports suggest that the Colts will target a tight end in the upcoming draft. With Drew Ogletree and Will Mallory currently leading the depth chart, there are concerns about their ability to fill the No. 1 tight end spot. Injuries have hindered Jelani Woods' development, further emphasizing the need for a reliable pass-catching option.

The Colts' tight ends totaled a mere 467 receiving yards last season, which is not competitive in today's NFL, as 25 individual tight ends surpassed that number. GM Chris Ballard has acknowledged the team's struggles in controlling the middle of the field, which necessitates adding a player capable of impact both as a blocker and receiver in their run-centric offense. With a deep draft class of tight ends this year, including players like Tyler Warren and Colston Loveland, Indiana has options to address this glaring need.

Jonathan Taylor redeemed himself after a costly mistake against the Denver Broncos, leading the Indianapolis Colts to a crucial victory over the Tennessee Titans. He rushed for a season-high 218 yards and three touchdowns, showcasing his explosive ability and resilience.

His performance helped the Colts maintain their playoff hopes, with Taylor crediting his teammates and offensive line for their support. The Colts now sit at 7-8, needing to win their remaining games to keep postseason aspirations alive.