Jan 1, 2023; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Indianapolis Colts tight end Jelani Woods (80) runs after a catch against the New York Giants during the first half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-USA TODAY Sports
Brock Bowers never made it to the Indianapolis Colts, but fellow tight end Jelani Woods, who missed all of last season due to injury, could become a star in Indy. If Woods excels, he might make fans forget about not landing Bowers.
The Colts had the 15th overall pick in this year’s NFL draft, and many fans hoped Bowers, the top tight end prospect, would be available. However, he was picked 13th overall by the Las Vegas Raiders, and the Colts selected UCLA edge rusher Laiatu Latu at 15.
Needing a talented pass-catcher, the Colts found one in the second round, drafting Texas wide receiver Adonai Mitchell. Mitchell, along with Jonathan Taylor, Michael Pittman Jr., Josh Downs, and a healthy Woods, could give quarterback Anthony Richardson a strong arsenal of offensive weapons.
**Jelani Woods’ Career Thus Far**
Jelani Woods started his college career at Oklahoma State, recording 31 receptions, 361 yards, and four touchdowns over three years. He then transferred to Virginia for his senior year, where he had a standout season with 44 catches, 598 yards, and eight touchdowns, earning first-team All-ACC honors.
The Colts drafted Woods in the third round (73rd overall) of the 2022 draft. He made an impact in Week 3 of his rookie year, helping Indianapolis upset the Kansas City Chiefs by scoring his first two career touchdowns. He also impressed against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 12 with eight catches for 98 yards. Woods finished his rookie season with 25 receptions, 312 yards, and three TDs in 15 games (two starts).
Expected to have a breakout 2023, Woods unfortunately missed the entire season due to hamstring injuries.
**Could Woods Be the Real Deal?**
The Colts have a deep tight end roster, including Woods, Kylen Granson, Will Mallory, Mo Alie-Cox, and Andrew Ogletree, each with diverse skill sets. Woods, with his 6-7, 253-pound frame and 4.61-second 40-yard dash, stands out as a potential game-changer. His size and speed make him a formidable matchup for defenses, but staying healthy is key.
While Colts fans were disappointed to miss out on Brock Bowers, Jelani Woods has the potential to become the go-to pass-catcher. If he can stay healthy and perform well, fans might soon be saying, “Brock who?”
