By Jordan Long
The Indianapolis Colts will be looking for a new tight end this season. Jack Doyle decided to retire from the NFL after a 9 year NFL career all with the Colts.
In 2013, Doyle signed a contract with the Tennessee Titans as an undrafted free agent out of college. He was hoping to earn a roster spot with the team. Unfortunately, he was cut on August 31, 2013. The Indianapolis Colts claimed him off of wavers and signed him to the active roster on September 1st, 2013.
In his first season, Doyle appeared in 15 games for the Colts but wasn’t productive with 5 receptions for 19 yards. In 2016, Doyle became more a part of the offense, catching 59 passes for 584 yards and 5 touchdowns. The touchdowns were the most in his career.
2017 was Doyle’s best year catching the football. He totaled 80 receptions for 690 yards, both career highs. Doyle added 4 touchdowns.
Last season, Doyle still could play the game at a high level for the Colts. He had 29 receptions for 302 yards and 3 touchdowns. Doyle took his time to decide his future after the Colts’ last game against Jacksonville on January 9th which they lost 26 to 11. He felt it was time to retire from the NFL game.
According to sports.yahoo.com, Doyle said, “I have a deep love for the game of football. I took pride in playing the game the right way and always leaving everything I had on the field. I have a deep respect for the dedication and commitment it takes to be out there for your teammates. At this time, my body is telling me that is a sacrifice I can no longer make.”
Doyle leaves the game appearing in 131 games. He caught 295 passes for 2,729 yards and 24 touchdowns. Now with him retiring, it leaves a void in the Colts’ offense.
The Colts need to replace the tight end. On the current roster Kylen Granson has some NFL experience. He played 17 games last year for the Colts but didn’t start any of them. He caught 11 passes for 106 yards. The Colts need to find another pass catching tight end.
There are plenty in free agency. These include veterans Zach Ertz, C.J. Uzomah, and Kyle Rudolph. The Colts have plenty of cap space to spend once free agency opens up next Wednesday at around $41 million. They could make a call to one of these tight ends. The Colts, though, will do what they feel is best for the team. They know with Doyle retiring it leaves a void for the tight end position and they must replace his production.
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