The Importance of Penn State Tight End Tyler Warren in 2023

Entering the 2023 season Penn State fans are excited for Penn State tight end Theo Johnson to finally get his opportunity as the number one option at the position this fall. I am also excited to watch Theo go to work; however, we must not forget about the big role Tyler Warren will play for the Nittany Lions this season.

Warren will now step into the team’s number two tight end role. For many programs across the country, this wouldn’t mean much in terms of impact on the field, but not at Penn State. Many schemes we will see on the field will include two, or even three tight ends from time to time. First, it gives the Nittany Lions an advantage when running the ball, to have extra blocking on the field. But more importantly, the receiving threat Johnson and Warren bring to the table makes opposing defenses plan a little more for Penn State.

Tyler Warren enters his junior year at Penn State in 2023. His impact on the team first came during the 2021 season when he was used in the wildcat position against Auburn in the whiteout. The ball was snapped to Warren and he showed off his athleticism by jumping over the line to score a touchdown.

The former high school quarterback has been hard to keep off the field over the past two seasons. Not only does he have a great vertical jump, Warren stands at 6’6 so he is capable of being a jump ball threat in the red zone. He showcased that ability well against Michigan in 2021.

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Warren stepped up his game last season as he doubled his production hauling in 10 receptions for 123 yards and 3 touchdowns on the season. He’s a great run blocker, they can split him out wide and he can run any route, plus the jump ball ability. Drew Allar will need to target players he is comfortable with early on in his career, I wouldn’t be surprised if it is the tight ends Theo Johnson and Tyler Warren who help ease Allar’s transition as a starter.