Since signing a solid 3-year, $17.55M deal in 2022, TE Mo Alie-Cox had a very lackluster 2022 season as he only mustered 19 receptions and 189 yards in 11 starts. Although, a disappointing season, Mo still provides a key factor for this Colts offense with his veteran presence and his familiarity with this organization.

The 29-year-old TE has been with the Colts since 2017 and is one of the oldest players on this very young roster. While veteran presence is needed in a young locker room, Mo will need to produce more on the field in order to make a case for that third tight end spot. With Will Mallory still out with a foot injury, it could make Mo’s case easier, but he still needs to show his worth by being a better producer.

One key factor that can help Mo have a breakout year is his new head coach, Shane Steichen. With the Philadelphia Eagles, Steichen made Dallas Goedert a very solid tight end and a huge security blanket for QB Jalen Hurts. As an interim offensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Chargers, Steichen coached Hunter Henry who has been considered a very consistent tight end throughout the league.

With Mo’s 6’5″ 267 lb frame, it is safe to assume that Steichen will utilize him in both passing and blocking. Now, none of the Colts tight ends are consistently good blockers, but with Mo’s familiarity with the league and size, he could definitely be primed to improve more than the rest. That being said, he still needs to be able to produce in the passing game, and with his size, the red zone will be an important area of production. As coach Steichen said, “We’re gonna throw to score points”.

It should be pointed out that there was considerable talk that the Colts should part ways with Mo. However, with his experience and the unmatched value of veteran leadership and familiarity, it would be a bit careless for an organization to move on now. Let’s also keep in mind that their fourth TE Will Mallory is on the injury list for training camp.

If Mo indeed takes that third tight end spot, he is primed to have a breakout year that is worthy of his contract. Whether that production is blocking his quarterback, creating holes for his running back, or getting open in the red zone, this Steichen offense could pose as a perfect match for the veteran tight end.