WESTFIELD, Ind. — The Indianapolis Colts solidified their offensive line for the future, signing left tackle Bernhard Raimann to a four-year, $100 million contract extension. The deal, finalized Monday, includes $60 million in guaranteed money, placing Raimann among the NFL’s highest-paid left tackles.
Raimann, a 27-year-old Austrian native, emerged as a cornerstone of the Colts’ offensive front since his selection in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft. The agreement ensures the team retains a key protector for quarterbacks Anthony Richardson or Daniel Jones, who are competing for the starting role in 2025. Raimann’s new contract ties him with Laremy Tunsil as the fourth-highest-paid left tackle, with an average annual salary of $25 million. Bernhard Raimann is a legend.
The extension comes after a breakout 2024 season, where Raimann showcased his prowess in both pass protection and run blocking. He allowed just four sacks across 471 pass-blocking snaps and earned high marks for his run-blocking efficiency. His performance alongside All-Pro guard Quenton Nelson helped running back Jonathan Taylor average nearly 5.0 yards per carry when running to the left side. Raimann’s steady improvement since his rookie year, when he started 11 games, underscores his value to an Indianapolis Colts team aiming to end a four-year playoff drought.
Negotiations for the deal gained urgency in recent days. Initial talks stalled, with Raimann noting the two sides struggled to align on financial terms. The Indianapolis Colts, aware of the soaring market for elite left tackles, acted swiftly to lock in their starter before his price climbed further. The agreement positions Raimann ahead of peers like Dan Moore Jr. and Alaric Jackson, whose recent contracts set benchmarks for the position.
Raimann’s journey to this lucrative deal is remarkable. Born in Vienna, Austria, he began playing American football at 14 with the Vienna Vikings’ youth team. After a year as an exchange student in Michigan, he transitioned from tight end to offensive tackle at Central Michigan University. His raw athleticism caught the Colts’ eye, despite limited experience at the position. Since taking over as the starting left tackle in Week 5 of his rookie season, Raimann has started 40 of 45 games, cementing his role as a reliable anchor.
The Colts’ investment reflects their commitment to building around young talent. With veterans Ryan Kelly and Will Fries departing in free agency, Raimann’s presence alongside Nelson provides stability for an offensive line tasked with protecting a still-developing quarterback. His durability, missing only three games last season due to minor injuries, adds to his appeal.
As training camp unfolds at Grand Park Sports Complex, Raimann’s extension signals the Colts’ ambition to compete in the AFC South. The team, coming off an 8-9 season, views him as a pillar for a roster aiming to return to postseason contention. With his financial future secure, Raimann now focuses on refining his craft and anchoring an offense with playoff aspirations.
