The Indianapolis Colts are hoping to return from their summer break on July 28 for training camp, barring any changes. We will be previewing the majority of the roster as the summer progresses.
Name: Trey Burton
Position: TE
Height: 6-foot-2
Weight: 238
Age: 28
Free Agent Year: 2021
Background
Burton played a secondary role behind Zach Ertz with the Philadelphia Eagles before signing a four-year deal worth $32 million with the Chicago Bears. The latter deal didn’t work out as planned and Burton was released just two years into the contract. However, he now reunites with his former Eagles offensive coordinator in Frank Reich, hoping the change of scenery will be just what he needs.
Expected Role
With Jack Doyle unquestionably the TE1, Burton will be working in a complementary role. It will likely be something similar to what Eric Ebron did during his two seasons in Indy. With Burton, the Colts will be using him as a move tight end and mostly in the passing game. He is likely headed for a snap count of 35–40% per game while being used as an athletic mismatch across the middle.
2020 Outlook
The Colts aren’t shelling out big money for Burton so he will have to earn his targets. With Doyle in the room, Burton’s ceiling is limited. However, the Colts have a use for a move tight end and Burton still has the athleticism and pass-catching chops to be a relevant part of the offense.
How quickly he can get a rapport with new quarterback Philip Rivers will be the key to his success. Burton won’t be high on the pecking order and will likely trail Doyle, T.Y. Hilton, Michael Pittman Jr. and Parris Campbell in targets. He will have a role, for sure, but he will need to be efficient with his targets.
Bottom Line
Burton brings a skill set to a role the Colts needed. He’s a great flex tight end to work as a complement to Doyle both in-line and in the slot. How much of the target share he will see depends on how quickly he can get to work with Rivers, but he should have a decent role in the offense.