As the Indianapolis Colts seek a left tackle of the future, they are planning to play multiple players at tackle throughout the season.
On Sunday, the Indianapolis Colts didn’t have the best pass protection in their Week 1 game against the Houston Texans. Unfortunately, that was somewhat expected. Indy struggled with pass blocking last season and many knew that would still be a question mark for the relatively talented team.
One of the interesting moments of the game was when starting left tackle, Matt Pryor, was subbed out for rookie Bernhard Raimann. Pryor, a fourth-year veteran, essentially was elevated to the No. 1 left tackle after Eric Fisher left in free agency. The Colts felt confident in Pryor and he was able to hold on to the position in training camp.
However, he has been rocky as the starter throughout the preseason and on Sunday in Week 1. That’s why when Raimann came in, many assumed the rookie was outright replacing Pryor. However, Pryor would find his way back into the game. Turns out, it was all a plan by Indianapolis, a plan that they’ll continue to carry out.
Head coach Frank Reich told the media that the Colts planned on rotating Raimann in and they will continue to do so that he can get real reps and develop. This is an unorthodox approach for a position that is considered to be one of the most important in the sport.
Colts are going to keep shuffling in rookie Bernhard Raimann at left tackle, spelling Matt Pryor at spots. "He's done enough to show us we trust him being out there," Frank Reich said. The third-round pick has improved quickly since the start of camp.
— Zak Keefer (@zkeefer) September 12, 2022
Colts will rotate Bernhard Raimann and Matt Pryor at left tackle
Bernhard Raimann was drafted by Indianapolis in the third round of this year’s draft and many believe he has the talent to eventually be the franchise left tackle. He’s 6-foot-6, 303 pounds, and athletic. However, Raimann just transitioned to left tackle in 2020.
While he took naturally to the position in college, it’s no surprise that he had some growing pains in training camp. But, as he’s quickly developing, he could eventually become the full-time left tackle before the season is over. However, the Colts are playing a risky game.
Left tackle is a vital position and it’s rare that teams will rotate players at the spot. Typically, teams like to find the best player early and leave them there for every play so that the quarterback is protected. Unfortunately, Indy knows it needs to get better at the position, even if it means using this risky plan. Hopefully, the Colts can find a full-time starter soon and the line can have stability.
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