Pro Football Focus (PFF), a top authority in football analytics, recently unveiled its list of the most underrated player on each NFL team. While some selections featured well-known names, many highlighted underappreciated contributors — including the Indianapolis Colts’ nominee.
Since the team drafted Quenton Nelson in 2018, the Colts’ offensive line has consistently ranked among the league’s best, often receiving top-five evaluations from PFF. Because of this sustained success, it’s easy to overlook a unit that quietly excels. But after analyzing the data, PFF singled out left tackle Bernhard Raimann as the Colts’ most underrated player.
“Quenton Nelson, Braden Smith, and Ryan Kelly — all former first- or second-round picks — are usually the first mentioned when discussing the Colts’ offensive line,” PFF noted. “However, the 2022 third-rounder has earned his spot in that conversation and may have been the group’s top performer following a breakout 2024 campaign.”
PFF backed its assessment with detailed 2024 stats.
“In 2024, Raimann posted a PFF pass-blocking grade of 82.0, the highest on the team and 14th-best among all offensive tackles. He was one of just six tackles to finish in the top 12 for both pass-blocking and run-blocking grades, culminating in a top-10 overall grade of 85.1 at his position,” PFF stated.
A Closer Look at Raimann’s Emergence
PFF’s praise for Raimann actually began shortly after the 2024 regular season ended, when he was named the Colts’ “secret superstar” in a separate article.
“Though often overshadowed by All-Pro guard Quenton Nelson, Raimann has become a dependable force at left tackle,” wrote Bradley Locker. “Across 1,159 career pass-blocking snaps, he has allowed just 15 sacks — a testament to his growth and reliability.”
