HOUSTON, TX – SEPTEMBER 17: Bernhard Raimann #79 of the Indianapolis Colts runs onto the field … [+]
When Bernhard Raimann was drafted in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft, there was a glimmer of hope he could develop into the Indianapolis Colts’ long-term solution at left tackle. Coming out of Central Michigan, Raimann was viewed as a raw offensive lineman prospect due to recently switching from tight end.
An international product of Austria, Raimann has already shattered through early expectations in Indianapolis. Embedded as the Colts’ starting left tackle alongside multi-time Pro Bowl talents in Quenton Nelson and Ryan Kelly, Raimann arguably is now their most consistent linemen.
Carrying an elite 81.3 grade on Pro Football Focus, the best on the Colts’ offensive line, Raimann is barely letting any pressure leak out from the quarterback’s blindside. Whether for Anthony Richardson early on, or now backup Gardner Minshew, Raimann’s numbers pop off the page allowing only two sacks and two total penalties in 11 games thus far.
The Colts’ offensive line hit rock bottom last season, but their rebound has been astronomical. Not only is Raimann viewed as an above-average left tackle in the NFL now, but players like Nelson and Kelly are experiencing strong bounce-back campaigns under new OL coach Tony Sparano Jr.
Now, Indianapolis is back to their offensive line being one of its bedrock strengths. Arguably four out of starters should be around long-term: Raimann, Nelson, Kelly, Braden Smith.
Will Fries, a 2021 seventh-round selection, hasn’t been bad either starting at right guard. Potentially, Indianapolis could sign or draft competition for Fries next offseason.
Those types of questions don’t exist anymore from Raimann. If his development curve is any indication, there’s a chance Raimann could be looking at a massive payday during the 2025 offseason.
Indianapolis sunk because of porous offensive line play a year ago. Now, they have mined a gem in Raimann who they can now build around for the long-term.
