Viennese NFL Star Raimann Lives His Dream with the Indianapolis Colts

"It's a great feeling," Bernhard Raimann expressed his satisfaction after the Indianapolis Colts' 33-8 blowout win against the Miami Dolphins. The 27-year-old Viennese celebrated the excellent start to his fourth NFL season not with his teammates, but at home with his daughter Charlotte Rose.

Millions for Vienna NFL Star Raimann

"I went straight home, relieved the babysitter, changed diapers, gave her a bottle, and got her ready for bed," Raimann recounted in an APA interview, grinning. The quarterback protector experienced an off-season full of highlights, becoming a father for the first time in February. "It's very nice, I really can't imagine anything better," emphasized Raimann, who particularly enjoyed the first months with his family. Since training started in July, however, football has been the focus again.

The next highlight followed in training camp: Raimann signed a four-year contract extension with a salary of 100 million dollars (85 million euros). This makes the domestic football pioneer, who has long been indispensable in the Colts' starting lineup, one of the top earners next year after the end of his rookie contract. According to APA information, the left tackle is guaranteed at least 60 million dollars in case of injury. "Of course," says Raimann, "you worry less about injuries. But in terms of pressure or preparation, it's the same."

The two-meter giant, who weighs about 145 kg, has not yet fully realized that he is entering the salary realms of a David Alaba or Jakob Pöltl. "Maybe it will feel different in a few years." Looking at the millions, Raimann remains modest, with no major expenses planned. "Flights to and from Austria aren't cheap either, so it's all the nicer to be able to help the family with it."

Successful Quarterback Swap at Indianapolis Colts

Against the Dolphins, the Colts delivered a dominant performance in front of the home crowd, with new quarterback Daniel Jones leading "Indy" to their first opening win since 2013. "I didn't expect it myself," revealed Raimann, who saw a "phenomenal" defensive performance and a consistent offense from his Colts. "A win right at the start is just enormously important for the team, for confidence. We want to maintain this momentum," he emphasized.

Jones, who according to Raimann is much more athletic than many believe, surprised his critics with a flawless performance. The longtime quarterback of the New York Giants had prevailed in the preseason against the often-injured fan favorite Anthony Richardson. Raimann spoke highly of the 27-year-old, whose "blindside" he now protects. "In his first week, he immediately invited all the O-liners (Offensive Linemen, ed.) to dinner and tried to get to know us personally. These are just little things that have a big impact on a team."

Broncos as the Next Hurdle for Vienna NFL Star Raimann and the Colts

The confident performance against the Dolphins was quickly put behind by Raimann and his teammates. "You always have to forget it right away and prepare for the next opponent. In the NFL, it doesn't matter whether it was a good or bad game," said Raimann.

On Sunday (10:05 PM CEST), the Colts hope for another good game, as the Denver Broncos, who also started with a win, are visiting. "They played well over the weekend (20:12 vs. Tennessee Titans, ed.). It's definitely another challenge. They are very well-positioned everywhere, especially in defense." With another win, Raimann wants to pave the way for the first playoff participation - and maybe even more. "The Super Bowl is always the goal. And if we function as a team, there are no limits to what we can achieve."

(APA/Red)

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