The 2018 NFL draft class for the Indianapolis Colts is widely considered the best group of players selected since general manager Chris Ballard took over the year prior.
Leading that group had been left guard Quenton Nelson, who was selected No. 6 overall during that draft. Following the breaking (but hardly shocking) news that Nelson signed a historical deal, the three-time All-Pro became the sixth player from the draft class to sign an extension with the Colts.
He’s also the fifth player from the group that signed a multi-year extension with the team since being drafted.
The deal is reportedly for four years worth $80 million with $60 million guaranteed. The averaged annual value (AAV) of $20 million makes Nelson the highest-paid guard in NFL history.
Here’s a look at the six 2018 draft picks that signed contract extensions with the Colts:
1
RT Braden Smith
Contract Details: Four years, $72.4 million
AAV: $17.5 million — 5th among right tackles
Date signed: July 28, 2021
Signed Through: 2025
2
LB Shaquille Leonard
Contract Details: Five years, $99.25 million
AAV: $19.7 million — 1st among linebackers
Date signed: Aug. 8, 2021
Signed Through: 2026
3
RB Nyheim Hines
Contract Details: Three years, $18.6 million
AAV: $6.2 million — 12th among running backs
Date signed: Sept. 10, 2021
Signed Through: 2024
4
DL Tyquan Lewis
Contract Details: One year, $3 million
AAV: $3 million — 100th among defensive linemen
Date signed: March 15, 2022
Signed Through: 2022
5
LB Zaire Franklin
Contract Details: Three years, $10 million (worth up to $12 million)
AAV: $3.33 million — 61st among linebackers
Date Signed: March 15, 2022
Signed Through: 2024
6
LG Quenton Nelson
Contract Details: Four years, $80 million
AAV: $20 million — 1st among guards
Date Signed: Sept. 11, 2022
Signed Through: 2026 (unconfirmed)
