It's NFL draft month. So between now and when the first round begins, we will be highlighting prospects who could be of interest to the Indianapolis Colts.
Next up, let's take a look at LSU tight end Mason Taylor, who could be an option for the Colts at a big need if they don't address this position in the first round.
Measureables
Height: 6-5
Weight: 251
Relative Athletic Score: 8.88
Mason Taylor is a TE prospect in the 2025 draft class. He scored a 8.88 #RAS out of a possible 10.00. This ranked 150 out of 1331 TE from 1987 to 2025. https://t.co/JnbWBn2yhFpic.twitter.com/fcw1S0GTDy
— Kent Lee Platte (@MathBomb) March 30, 2025
Stats to know
Taylor has been a productive pass catcher in the LSU offense for the last three seasons. During that span, he caught 71% of his 181 targets at 10.1 yards per catch with six touchdowns.
The 2024 season was a career year for Taylor, who tallied 546 receiving yards. Roughly half of Taylor's snaps over his career have come lined up in-line, while 43% came from the slot.
Out of 85 eligible tight ends, Taylor ranked 41st in PFF's run-blocking grade.
Fit with Colts
Taylor would provide instant help in Shane Steichen's offense. The Colts obviously need a much greater pass-catching presence at the position, which Taylor can help provide, but not to be forgotten about, is that he can hold his own as a blocker as well.
When there is that well-rounded skill set within an offense at the tight end position, it adds a level of unpredictability to that unit because defenses can't get a beat on what's coming as easily.
"You gotta be multiple in the pass game," Steichen said at the NFL's annual league meeting via the team site. "Obviously you would love the guy that can block. I think those guys, it's hard to find the true blocking tight ends anymore, but a guy that can battle in the run game is good. Great hands, can come in and out of the breaks, big and strong after the catch as well. There's a lot of good ones in this draft. It'll be interesting."
NFL draft profile
Here is what Lance Zierlein of NFL.com wrote about Taylor in his pre-draft scouting report:
"With just three seasons under Taylor’s belt, more growth is expected in both his game and frame. He’s a smooth athlete with adequate acceleration and the tools to become a more effective route runner in time. He feels defenders around him and catches with sudden hands and elevated focus when needed. He can handle blocking duties on the move or in space, but in-line action will be a challenge for him. His game needs polish, but Taylor has the ability to become a higher-volume target for a team looking to upgrade at the “F” tight end spot."