NFL analyst believes Indianapolis Colts have 'unique weapon' in former Day 2 pick

As the Indianapolis Colts prepare for their second season under Shane Steichen, the tight end position remains somewhat of a question mark.

With veteran starter Mo Alie-Cox back on the roster, there could be some changes coming as the team wraps up training camp and the preseason.

That could pave the way for an expanded role for third-year tight end Jelani Woods, something CBS Sports' Cody Benjamin wants to see.

“Shane Steichen saw how tight ends can make life easier for quarterbacks during his time with the Philadelphia Eagles, so the 6-foot-7 former All-State basketball player could be used as a unique weapon in Indy,” Benjamin wrote.

Woods missed the entire 2023 season with a lingering hamstring injury. He had hoped to return mid-season, but another setback kept him out of action.

Woods now enters his third NFL season with the potential to make a sizable impact in the passing game. His elite athleticism could give him an edge as a starter, and he's already shown some potential as a receiving option.

The Colts have a loaded tight end room heading into training camp, but no one would be surprised if Woods emerges as the depth chart leader when all is said and done.