INDIANAPOLIS – The man Andrew Luck looked to in so many critical situations last season is staying in the place he's called home for his entire life.
On Tuesday night, the Colts agreed to terms with tight end Jack Doyle, an Indianapolis native who has spent the previous four years playing for his hometown team.
"Jack is a consummate professional who is highly revered among all in this organization," general manager Chris Ballard said in a team release.
"He possesses a tremendous amount of talent and you can witness how much he loves playing the game when you watch him compete. Jack has emerged as a leader in his four seasons with this team and we're thrilled he'll be returning. We also want to thank his agents Buddy Baker and Matthew Pope for their efforts throughout this process."
Doyle, 26, was outstanding in a contract year this past season.
With Coby Fleener moving on last offseason, Doyle shattered previous career-highs with 59 catches for 584 yards and five touchdowns.
Doyle was the Colts' second leading receiver and easily one of the more reliable targets, particularly in big moments.
Among the NFL tight ends with at least 50 targets in 2016, Doyle had the highest catch percentage (78.6 percent, 59-of-75 balls caught).
The Colts have asked Doyle to fill a plethora of roles in his four seasons in Indy.
Injuries have not been an issue for Doyle. He's yet to miss a game due to injury since joining the NFL in 2013.
Coming into 2016, Doyle had career totals of 35 catches for 209 yards. His days of primarily being a blocker deteriorated this past season.
The Colts will bring back Doyle and Dwayne Allen at the top of the tight end position, with Mo Alie-Cox (an exclusive rights free agent) also likely returning to compile an extremely deep group.
Reports indicate Doyle's deal was for three years and $19 million.
During the free agency process, Doyle expressed a hope to return to the Colts.
"Obviously, I want to be in Indy," Doyle said in late February. "This is the team I dreamed to play for, the team I grew up rooting for."
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