The Indianapolis Colts may have a controversy at quarterback, but they are not worried about who will protect their QB’s blindside.
Indianapolis locked up left tackle Bernhard Raimann to a four-year, $100 million contract extension the team announced Tuesday.
Raimann, a third-round selection of the Colts in the 2022 NFL Draft from Central Michigan, was set to enter the final season of his four-year rookie contract before agreeing to terms on the extension.
Raimann will protect the blind side of either incumbent QB Anthony Richardson or off-season free-agent signing Daniel Jones, since both are right-handed. Coach Shane Steichen is giving both quarterbacks the opportunity to win the job for Indianapolis’ Week 1 game against the Miami Dolphins on Sept. 7.
What Did Bernhard Raimann Say About His Contract Extension?
Despite his lack of pedigree as the 77th-overall pick, the left tackle has become one of the best in football. He ranked eighth among 140 qualifying tackles by Pro Football Focus with an 85.1 grade and ranked 14th among pass-blocking grades (82) and 10th in run-blocking grades (80.7).
So Raimann has earned the contract. But he still appreciates it.
“Just really grateful to be a part of this organization, grateful for the Irsay family and Mr. Ballard,” Raimann said, according to the Colts team site, Tuesday. “We’ve always wanted to be here, so it’s such a blessing to be here.”
The Colts, in turn, expressed their excitement in Raimann and expressed how he has had an effect on the field and off.
“Bernhard has worked extremely hard, and this contract extension is a testament to his character, dedication and persistence,” general manager Chris Ballard said in a statement. “He exemplifies each of our team’s four pillars and is a leader in our locker room. I’m excited for him and his family on this well-deserved contract extension.”
What Did Bernhard Raimann Say About Winning?
Between Raimann, and three-time Pro Bowl left guard Quenton Nelson who plays next to him, the Colts have a stalwart left side of their line that is the envy of opposing teams.
But Raimann has not yet played a postseason game, since Indianapolis has not competed in one since the 2020 season, and has not won a playoff game since Nelson’s rookie year, 2018.
That fact led Raimann to speak of his goals in 2025.
“It’s all about the team, all about football,” he said. “Winning some games for the Colts but (also) for Indiana, and I’m just excited to be doing that.”
So winning comes first for the Colts, especially since they just watched the Indiana Pacers fire up the home town with their run to the NBA Finals. Some Colts have discussed how the Pacers have inspired them to try and win more.
But Raimann is focused on the process of success rather than the destination.
“Just taking it day by day, trying to make the most of my opportunities,” Raimann explained. “But obviously, I’ve been very fortunate. … I’ve had some amazing people that supported me through it all, gave me strength.
“So it’s been daily improvements and just a day-by-day mindset ever since, and now we’re just beyond blessed to be here.”
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