Colts 2014 Positional Review: Tight End
By Evan Reller
Jan 11, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Indianapolis Colts tight end Dwayne Allen (83) celebrates after a touchdown against the Denver Broncos in the 2014 AFC Divisional playoff football game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
2015 Contract: $975,826
Stats: 29 receptions, 335 yards, 8 touchdowns
PFF Grade: +6.2
The Good:
Allen is a constant matchup problem for opponents and an excellent run blocker. He was the ninth highest graded tight end by PFF and Football Outsiders had him 11th in DYAR and second in DVOA.
He is a red zone nightmare as well using his 6-3 size to essentially box out defenders. Allen made a number of outstanding plays this season and is someone the Colts need and want on the field long term.
The Bad:
The biggest knock on Allen is his health. He missed basically all of 2013 with a hip injury. He missed three games following an ankle injury early in Week 11 and never appeared to be 100-percent after that.
Allen didn’t rarely had a bad game this season, but his game against Dallas Week 16 certainly stands out. He played eight horrible snaps in that game and had two drops, despite routinely beating his defender.
2015 Outlook:
He’s a wealth of potential and could develop into one of the best tight ends in the NFL, but needs to stay on the field. The Colts offense is better with him on the field, especially when it comes to running the ball.
He’s also in the prolific 2012 class of potential re-signees. Given Allen’s potential the Colts would like him back. And with his injury history, it likely won’t cost all that much but a great season from him in 2015 could drive up the price.