The Indianapolis Colts brought in 13 total undrafted free agents following the 2019 NFL Draft and the conclusion of rookie minicamp, which ended with four tryout players signing contracts.
Name: Hale Hentges
College: Alabama
Position: TE
Height: 6-foot-4
Weight: 248 pounds
Age: 22
Quick Hits
- Was used primarily as a blocking tight end for Alabama. Had 15 total receptions over four years in college.
- Proficient blocker that could be turned into an H-back role.
- High character player. Named to SEC Academic Honor Roll and honored as the SEC Scholar-Athlete of the Year.
- Had a solid rookie minicamp with the Colts showing off some solid route running. From Stephen Holder of The Athletic: “He looked like a proficient route runner and showed good hands in drills, and that was enough to prompt me to investigate further. Imagine my surprise when I learned he caught just four passes as a senior for the Crimson Tide last season, where he was used almost exclusively as a blocking tight end (a very good one, apparently).”
Fit with the Colts
It is known that the Colts have arguably the deepest tight end room in the NFL with the likes of Jack Doyle, Eric Ebron and Mo Alie-Cox all returning for 2019. Add in Ross Travis coming back, and there is reason to be excited about this group. However, the Colts could be looking to add a blocking tight end that held a role similar to that of Ryan Hewitt.
Hentges is a blocking first tight end but has the ability to be a reliable pass catcher on short routes. His blocking is what will attract the Colts and other teams while also being an extremely high character player off the field. That certainly helps his case with the Colts.
Conclusion
The Colts have a deep tight end room with various skill sets. It will be tough for Hentges to crack the roster exclusively as a blocking tight end but given his proficiency in that area in addition to his high character, there could be a spot for him on the practice squad as a prospect to mold.
