Indianapolis Colts extend RT Braden Smith with $72.4 million contract

Damien Woody explains why Carson Wentz's decision to move to Indianapolis is a good thing. (1:10)WESTFIELD (Ind.) According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, the Indianapolis Colts have signed right tackle BradenSmith to a $42 million extension of his $72.4 million contract.The Colts announced the extension later, but didn't disclose the terms.Chris Ballard, general manager, stated earlier this week that "We want to care for our players."Smith was a 2018 second-round selection. He played guard at Auburn for the majority of his college career. After selecting Smith, the Colts made him a right tackle and he was the first to start at the position full-time in his rookie year. He has been a key part of the Colts' offensive line, alongside Quenton Nelson and Mark Glowinski.Smith said that it was a relief to know where you will be in the next few years. He asked his agent for a deal before the regular season began. I love this organization. I am grateful to [owner] Jim Irsay and Chris Ballard for believing in me. Indianapolis feels like my home. They paid me so I want them to pay me back. You want me to be the best football player I can, so help them win as many matches as possible.Smith's signing is just the beginning of the many contracts that the Colts will give to their 2018 draft class.Darius Leonard, one of the best linebackers in the NFL is now eligible for an extension. In three seasons, he has 416 tackles and 15 sacks. He also intercepted seven passes and forced nine fumbles.Leonard tweeted congratulations to Smith for his extension and said: "Congratulations my man!" Well deserved."Nelson was the No. Nelson, who was the No. 6 pick in 2018, has a good chance to be the highest-paid player at his position once he gets his extension. Nelson was named All Pro in his three first seasons in the NFL.Ballard stated, "Let's just say that we've had a great back-and forth." "[Director for football administration] Mike Bluem has done a tremendous job, just like all the agents with whom we have worked. They have been amazing. It's a constant battle. It's not always easy to get these extensions done early, but we'll keep trying."