Trey McBride has expressed his enthusiasm for the future of rookie NFL star Tyler Warren, as the Arizona Cardinals tight end dubbed the 22-year-old a “stud”. Warren had been regarded as one of the most promising tight end prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft, with many predicting him to be one of the first picks in the initial round.
The Indianapolis Colts quickly seized the opportunity after the Draft commenced, selecting the 22-year-old with their 14th overall pick. The Penn State sensation concluded his 2024 season with over 100 ball receptions and more than 1,200 receiving yards, significantly contributing to the college football team’s offence. While many were eager to see where Warren would land, McBride was confident that the rookie would shine regardless of his destination.
McBride, who until recently was the highest-paid tight end in NFL history, appeared on Golf.com’s podcast, Subpar, alongside former PGA Tour star Colt Knost and fellow golfer Drew Stoltz to discuss all things football.
The 25-year-old has been a hot topic in the NFL lately, having signed a four-year contract extension worth £57million ($76m), with £32.3m ($43m) guaranteed.
This record-breaking deal held the title of the biggest in football history for almost a month, until the San Francisco 49ers stepped in and secured George Kittle on a £62.8m ($76.4m) deal for the same position.
McBride made his predictions for Warren’s successful future in the league during his appearance on the podcast ahead of the NFL Draft.
He said: “I think that kid from Penn State, Tyler Warren’s a stud you know. He had a great year and I’m excited to see where he goes and kind of what happens with him.”
Building on this early forecast, Warren has now signed a four-year deal with the Colts, which includes a signing bonus and an option for a fifth year.
According to Sportrac, the initial agreement is valued at £15.7m ($20.9m), with an £8.9m ($11.8m) signing bonus and a prospective extension into a fifth season in 2029.
If these contract details are correct, Warren could be raking in well beyond £20m across his first four years in the NFL, without signing another deal in the process.
So if Warren’s career trajectory follows that of standouts like McBride or Kittle, it’s possible he might secure one of the league’s most exceptional contracts to date.