Colts sign RT Braden Smith to contract extension

The Indianapolis Colts signed right tackle Braden Smith to a four-year contract extension, the team announced Wednesday.

This move was to be expected as the Colts have been talking all offseason about getting a deal done with Smith. The former second-round pick has been a stalwart on the right side of the line since filling in as a starter early on during his rookie season.

The contract is reportedly four years worth $72.4 million with $42 million guaranteed, per Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.

The #Colts and OT Braden Smith have agreed to a four-year extension worth $72.4 million, including $70 million in new money and $42 million guaranteed, per source. Indy locks up big-time tackle.

— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) July 28, 2021

Smith has been a key cog in the offensive line for the Colts since he was drafted in 2018. Though he was drafted as a guard, the Colts saw he had potential to be a tackle. He’s proven them right thus far as one of the best young tackles in the game.

According to Pro Football Focus, Smith allowed 25 pressures, one quarterback hit and no sacks on 578 pass-blocking snaps in 2020.

With Smith’s deal done, the Colts will look to lock up linebacker Darius Leonard to a long-term extension as well.