INDIANAPOLIS – Dwayne Allen in your local yoga studio?

Those in the community shouldn't be surprised to see a 6-3, 265-pound with his mat tucked under an arm for some offseason flexibility work.

Some yoga and Pilates training has been part of Allen's preparing for 2016, after he signed a four-year extension back in March.

While Allen knows preparing to prevent injuries isn't easy, being more flexible was atop his goal sheet this offseason.

There also is some extra weight Allen will no longer feel this season

When Allen suits up in 2016 there won't be a cloud hanging over him of what will happen in a contract year.

The Colts' offer spoke for itself---you're our guy, Dwayne Allen.

"That's probably the biggest change from last year to this year is having that uncertainty behind me and knowing that I'm here," Allen says.

Naturally, the unknown nature of last season bothered Allen.

With Coby Fleener making a pretty compelling case as a re-sign option, Allen wasn't sure how the offseason would play out.

The hope for Allen was to get another chance to show what he did as a rookie.

"I always wanted the opportunity to be on the field like I was in 2012," Allen now says.

In 2012, Allen played all 16 games. He caught 45 balls for 521 yards, while excelling as an in-line blocker.

Last season, in 13 games, Allen saw just 29 targets (16 receptions).

Those numbers will be addressed this season, says Chuck Pagano.

"(Allen) meets all the requirements that we are going to ask of our starting tight end," Pagano says.

"He's one of the better blockers in the league. We know, when healthy, he can be a mismatch. He's a big body guy that can make plays. He's going to be big for us in the red area. He's a damn good tight end. That's why he's here."

New coordinator Rob Chudzinski has a history of utilizing the tight end position.

In previous stints as an offensive coordinator, Chud's top tight end has averaged around 60 catches for 730 yards.

Those receiving numbers would put Allen near the top 10 of the league's tight ends.

If the yoga and a new Colts strength staff can help Allen return to 2012 form, expect Chud to dial up No. 83.

"I see Dwayne as a guy that is a definite weapon for us," Chud says.

"His versatility is probably the thing that makes him unique in that he can do so many things well and it really allows us to be diverse on offense as well."