The Indianapolis Colts have made a significant move to secure one of their most promising young defensive players. Defensive tackle Adetomiwa Adebawore has reportedly agreed to a two-year, $35 million contract extension with the team.
According to reports, the deal includes a $13 million signing bonus and $22.5 million in new money through 2027. The agreement keeps Adebawore in Indianapolis after a breakout season that has made him one of the Colts' most valuable and attractive defensive assets.
Dec 28, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Parker Washington (11) runs against Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle Adetomiwa Adebawore (95) during the second half at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Goddin-Imagn Images
The Colts' decision comes during a major organizational transition. Indianapolis has already traded away several veteran stars, including Quenton Nelson and DeForest Buckner, while preparing for a new direction under its next general manager.
Nonetheless, Adebawore represents the building-block mindset the Colts have heading into the trade deadline next week. The 25-year-old defensive tackle is a homegrown talent who has developed into a valuable asset for Indianapolis' future.
Nov 30, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle Adetomiwa Adebawore (95) works to get to Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Grace Hollars-USA TODAY Network via Imagn Images
The Colts selected Adebawore in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft. His development initially came slowly, as he played a limited role during his first two seasons in Indianapolis. That changed in 2026.
Adebawore has emerged as one of the Colts' most productive interior pass rushers. Through eight games, he has recorded 19 tackles, four tackles for loss, four sacks, 16 quarterback pressures, and two passes defended. His four sacks have already matched his total from the entire 2025 season.
Adebawore's ability to generate pressure from the interior has become increasingly important for Indianapolis. The Colts have struggled to consistently disrupt opposing quarterbacks, making his emergence one of the few encouraging developments during a difficult season.
Adebawore initially operated in a rotational role. The departure of Buckner, however, opened the door for Adebawore to become a full-time starter. He has taken advantage of that opportunity. The Colts are now rewarding his development with a substantial financial commitment. Rather than allowing Adebawore to enter free agency after the season, Indianapolis has secured his services before he could test the market.
Oct 19, 2025; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (10) is taken down by Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle Adetomiwa Adebawore (95) after a first down in the first half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
The Colts' decision to re-sign Adebawore carries additional significance given the organization's recent moves. Indianapolis traded Nelson to the Seattle Seahawks and Buckner to the San Francisco 49ers. Both players were established veterans who had played important roles in the team's identity.
Nelson and Buckner's departures have left significant holes on both sides of the football. Adebawore's extension gives Indianapolis a young defensive player around whom they can build. Adebawore, the former Northwestern standout, is entering his prime. His athleticism, pass-rushing ability, and continued development make him an appealing piece for a franchise rebuilding its roster.
The Colts also have a new general manager to hire after firing Chris Ballard. That transition could lead to additional roster changes, making it especially important to identify players who can remain productive under a new leadership structure.
Adebawore has already demonstrated that he can develop into a valuable contributor. His contract also provides Indianapolis with some continuity during a period of uncertainty. The Colts will need to make several important decisions in the coming months. Retaining a young defensive tackle, however, who has already demonstrated his ability to pressure quarterbacks, is a strong starting point.
Nov 12, 2023; Frankfurt, Germany; Indianapolis Colts defensive end Adetomiwa Adebawore (95) in the first half during an NFL International Series game against the New England Patriots at Deutsche Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
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The Colts have spent much of the 2026 season watching their roster change. With the team struggling to compete, Indianapolis has shifted its focus toward the future. Several veteran players have already departed, and additional changes could follow. Adebawore's extension provides a different kind of headline. The Colts are not simply moving players out. They are also identifying young talent worth keeping.
Adebawore's production suggests that he could become an important part of the team's defensive identity. His ability to generate pressure from the interior is particularly valuable in a league where disrupting opposing quarterbacks remains essential.
There are still questions surrounding Indianapolis' defense. The team needs additional pass-rushing help, improved consistency, and more talent across several positions. Adebawore's emergence gives the Colts a player they can build around.
The organization will now have an opportunity to evaluate his continued development alongside other young players as it prepares for the next chapter. For a franchise searching for direction, retaining a productive young defensive tackle is a meaningful step. Adebawore has earned his new contract. Now, Carlie Irsay-Gordon hopes that Adebawore's best football is still ahead of him heading into the new era of the Indianapolis Colts.
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