Colts Lock In Defensive Tackle For 2028

Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle Adetomiwa Adebawore has agreed to a contract extension.

NFL Network reported on Tuesday afternoon that the team and the 25-year-old player finalized terms on a two-year deal worth $35 million. The contract runs through the 2028 season and includes a $13 million signing bonus.

Adebawore entered the league as a fourth-round pick in the 2023 draft. He has developed into a primary starter during his current contract year. This marks a notable outcome for a draft class that followed a four-win campaign and was intended as a rebuilding effort. Of the twelve players selected in that class, Adebawore may be the only one to sign a second contract with the franchise.

The move secures a position that has seen consistent starters since 2020. The Colts recently traded veteran DeForest Buckner. Grover Stewart, 33, is also in a contract year. This leaves the team needing to rebuild the defensive line while managing expiring contracts before next Tuesday's trade deadline.

Chris Ballard, who led the team's front office during the 2023 draft, identified Adebawore for his unique speed at the defensive tackle position. The team originally viewed him as a rotational player with special teams value. His performance has since established him as a foundational piece for the defense.

The Colts are scheduled to finalize additional roster moves before the trade deadline next Tuesday. The extension places Adebawore on the roster for at least two more seasons. The deal caps his current financial commitment with the team through the 2028 campaign.