As NFL teams begin finalizing rosters and negotiating extensions ahead of the 2025 season, one notable situation brewing quietly in Indianapolis has caught the attention of league insiders: why haven’t the Colts extended their starting left tackle, Bernhard Raimann, who remains on a modest rookie deal worth just \$1.3 million annually?
Raimann, a 2022 third-round pick out of Central Michigan, has emerged as a reliable and promising presence on the Colts’ offensive line one that was once considered a team weakness. Entering the final year of his rookie contract, Raimann is set to earn a base salary well below market value for a starting-caliber left tackle. With several young linemen around the league cashing in early, some fans and analysts are wondering: what’s the holdup in Indianapolis?
According to a recent report from NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero, the Colts are exercising cautious patience in Raimann’s case. While they view him as a potential long-term solution at left tackle, the front office reportedly wants to see another year of consistency and durability before committing to an extension.
“The Colts are pleased with Raimann’s development,” Pelissero said during a segment on NFL Now. “But they’re also trying to be financially responsible with their cap space. They want to make sure he can anchor that line for a full season before they talk serious money.”
That strategy aligns with the approach Colts general manager Chris Ballard has taken throughout his tenure prioritizing internal evaluations and contractual timing over public pressure.
Raimann, who started 17 games in 2024 and was among the team’s highest-graded pass blockers per Pro Football Focus, has not expressed any frustration publicly. Sources indicate he remains focused on his performance and is open to discussions “at the right time.”
With the left tackle market continuing to rise and Raimann’s value poised to climb if he performs well again in 2025, the Colts may soon find themselves facing a tough choice extend him early at a team-friendly rate or risk a much higher price tag down the road.
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