One of Dave Canales’ most interesting answers on Tuesday might’ve come following his actual podium time from Indianapolis.
The second-year head coach of the Carolina Panthers took some additional time to talk with reporters after his scheduled media availability at the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine. He was asked about Penn State tight end Tyler Warren, a potential candidate for the team’s upcoming first-round pick—and his response may be worth keeping in mind.
“I think he’s an incredible player,” Canales stated. “Speaking of versatility—here’s a guy that can play close to the interior and play physical, because of his sheer size. And then, he does create some mismatches in the pass game. You can hand him the ball. If you look at some of the teams that are using tight ends for a QB sneak, that would be a weapon for somebody in a short-yardage situation to utilize him. So, he’s a very interesting prospect.”
Dave Canales calls Penn St. TE Tyler Warren an interesting prospect who can block, make plays in pass game and could be used on QB sneaks.
Interesting prospect, interesting comments. pic.twitter.com/0OKUPYE3cY— Joe Person (@josephperson) February 25, 2025
As a pass catcher alone, Warren can lift what’s been a very underwhelming tight end room in Carolina. The first-team All-American reeled in 104 passes for 1,233 yards and eight touchdowns for the Nittany Lions this past season.
The 6-foot-6, 250-pounder, as Canales alluded to, was also used in the running game. Warren notched 218 yards and four scores on 26 rushing attempts in 2024.
That short-yardage tool could come in handy for the Panthers, who aren’t lining up the biggest of quarterbacks under center.