Colts Lock In Adebawore With Two-Year, $35 Million Deal

The Indianapolis Colts agreed to a two-year contract extension with defensive tackle Adetomiwa Adebawore on Tuesday. The new deal is valued at $35 million and keeps the player on the roster through the 2028 campaign.

The agreement includes a $13 million signing bonus. Adebawore, who turns 25 this year, was selected by Indianapolis in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft. The extension secures his status for the next four seasons, a period that spans the current contract year and two subsequent years.

General Manager Chris Ballard’s staff originally identified Adebawore as a high-upside prospect with unique speed for the defensive tackle position. Since joining the team, he has developed into a primary starter rather than a rotational player. This progression distinguishes him from the rest of the 2023 draft class, which has struggled to establish long-term value on the roster.

The Colts are currently navigating a trade deadline that falls next Tuesday. While the team aims to acquire draft capital by trading players with expiring contracts, Adebawore represents a different strategic priority. He is being retained as a foundational element for future roster construction.

The defensive line has undergone significant changes since 2020. DeForest Buckner has been traded away, and Grover Stewart, 33, is entering another contract year. With these departures and expirations, the team must rebuild the interior defense. Adebawore remains a stable component in a position that has seen frequent turnover.

The 2023 draft class was intended to jumpstart a rebuild following a four-win season. Despite the overall performance of that group, Adebawore stands out as the only member likely to receive a second contract from the organization. His retention ensures the Colts retain a known quantity on the defensive line as they plan for the future.