Jack Doyle

Jack Doyle achieved what few NFL players ever do—he spent his entire nine-year professional career with his hometown team, the Indianapolis Colts. Doyle’s journey from an overlooked high school athlete to an NFL mainstay is a story of resilience, hard work, and unwavering commitment.

Born and raised in Indianapolis, Indiana, Doyle attended Cathedral High School, where he played a pivotal role in the team’s 2006 state championship victory. His standout performance earned him All-State honors, but despite his success, he received just one Division I scholarship offer—from Western Kentucky University.

At WKU, Doyle wasted no time making an impact. As a freshman, he started 10 games at tight end, earning a spot on Phil Steele’s National All-Freshman Team. Although a season-ending injury cut short his sophomore campaign, he rebounded with a strong junior season, which earned him Second-Team All-Sun Belt honors. As a senior, Doyle elevated his game further, hauling in 53 receptions for 566 yards and five touchdowns. He was named First-Team All-Sun Belt and became a semifinalist for the prestigious Mackey Award, given to the nation’s top tight end. Chosen by his teammates as a three-time team captain, Doyle’s leadership was as evident as his talent.

Despite his impressive college career, Doyle was not invited to the 2013 NFL Scouting Combine. Undeterred, he organized a private pro day, drawing representatives from 20 NFL teams. Ranked as the 20th-best tight end prospect in the draft, he ultimately went undrafted. The Tennessee Titans signed him as an undrafted free agent, but he was waived during final roster cuts. The Titans intended to place him on their practice squad, but the Indianapolis Colts had other plans. Recognizing the potential of their hometown native, the Colts claimed Doyle off waivers and added him to their active roster—a move that would shape the course of his career.

Over the next nine seasons, Doyle became a dependable and versatile tight end for the Colts. His best four-year stretch came from 2016 through 2019. During that span, he started all 53 games he was available for and recorded 208 catches for 1,967 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns. This production was even more impressive considering an injury in 2018 that limited him to just six games that season.

His standout regular season performance occurred in 2017 against the Cincinnati Bengals, when he caught 12 passes on 88% of his targets, totaling 121 yards and a touchdown. His most impressive playoff game came in 2020 against the Buffalo Bills, where he recorded 70 receiving yards and a touchdown.

He earned two Pro Bowl selections (2017, 2019) and was known for his strong hands, precise route running, and exceptional blocking ability. Doyle became a beloved figure in Indianapolis, embodying the grit and determination that define the Hoosier state and city’s sports culture.

After a remarkable career with the Colts, Doyle announced his retirement in 2022, leaving behind a legacy of perseverance, loyalty, and excellence—an inspiration to athletes everywhere who dare to chase their dreams, no matter the odds.

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