Shane Steichen gives update on Bernhard Raimann concussion

Indianapolis Colts head coach Shane Steichen announced that left tackle Bernhard Raimann has cleared concussion protocol, and will return to practice this week.

Raimann reported symptoms of a concussion following the Colts' loss to the Houston Texans in Week 8, and did not practice at all the following week. He also did not play against the Minnesota Vikings, with rookie Matt Goncalves playing in his place.

The news is a huge positive for the Colts, as their offensive line has been decimated by injuries in recent weeks. Previously, the Colts had one of the best offensive lines in the NFL, but numerous injured Colts, including Raimann, have made the offensive line weaker. In addition to Raimann, the offensive line has lost Will Fries to a fractured tibia, and most recently, Ryan Kelly to a calf injury. Fries is out for the season, while Kelly has been placed on injured reserve, and could be back after four weeks.

Raimann is from Austria, and began playing American football at the age of 14 for the Vienna Vikings. He lived in Michigan for a year as an exchange student, and after completing his compulsory military service in Austria, committed to playing football at Central Michigan University. His first two years he played as tight end, before being moved to offensive tackle. He was named Offensive Player of the Year for the Mid-American Conference by Pro Football Focus in 2021.

The Colts selected Raimann in the third round of the 2022 NFL draft, and took over the starting left tackle position that season from Matt Pryor, starting 11 of the final 13 games. He then played 15 games in the 2023 season. He improved greatly during his sophomore season, committing fewer penalties, and allowing less sacks; he has been even more impressive so far this season, and while Goncalves was adequate in his absence, the Colts offense will be well-served to have him back next Sunday against the Buffalo Bills.