James Franklin: Defenses ‘can’t put Tyler Warren into a category’

Penn State football saw another strong performance from tight end Tyler Warren. We saw flashes of his talent in the Peach Bowl against Ole Miss, but in 2024 he has been unstoppable. One of the keys to his game is the Nittany Lions‘ tight ends versatility. Following the UCLA win James Franklin expresses what that means.

Tyler Warren finished his day against UCLA with three catches for 29 yards and a touchdown. But it’s the element of versatility that keeps defenses guessing. So, not only as a tight end but also as a runner and someone who can throw the football. All components of the Nittany Lions have shown on film.

“When they can’t put Tyler Warren into a category, that’s what makes tight ends most valuable,” James Franklin said following the UCLA win on Saturday. “If he’s just a receiver they can treat him like he’s a receiver, treated as ten personnel. If he’s just kind of a run-blocking slug, then that’s not a threat either.

“But when he can do either or it makes him very difficult to defend. And to your point, he’s dependable. If you throw the ball in his direction he’s going to catch it and he’s going to break tackles and get positive yards. I think he’s the best tight end in college football and he’s played well.”

Warren sets new Penn State record

© Grace Carella / Basic Blues Nation, 2024.

With his lone touchdown reception against UCLA Tyler Warren’s strong season has added him to the Penn State football history books. He passed Pat Freiermuth in the record books with 17 career touchdown catches.

Most for a PSU TE, ever. ☑️ pic.twitter.com/waOSv1t4Iz

— Penn State Football (@PennStateFball) October 5, 2024

Warren has accounted for 23 catches for 289 yards and three touchdowns this season.

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