While he showed his athleticism and pass-catching skills during the offseason program, Tonyan looked the part as a blocker once the pads came on in training camp. As a receiver, he rarely failed to catch balls thrown his way in practice and finished preseason play with eight receptions for 61 yards and two touchdowns.

“He hasn’t been bashful at all,” said offensive coordinator Joe Philbin, a former tight ends coach. “He’s not backed down from the physical aspect of the game, and I think he’s made the most out of his opportunities. He’s got hands, and he’s done a good job in protection. (Tight ends’) job descriptions are fairly extensive. Not only have they had to play on the line, they’ve got to play off the line, they’ve got to be a running back from a protection standpoint. We put a lot on their plate both as a protector on the ball, a protector in the backfield. He’s adjusted to the offense well.”

Meanwhile, after clarifying his status with the team on Saturday, Tonyan picked up his phone again. This time, it was to call his mother, Tammy, who was celebrating her birthday.

“It was good to give her that call and give her that birthday present,” said Tonyan, who said he’d be picking up a No. 85 jersey from the pro shop for her. “It was nice to call her and share an emotional moment with her, (since) she’s been there for me since I’ve been playing in middle school. For it to be on her birthday, I can’t be thankful enough.”

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