Indianapolis Colts sign T Nolan Rucci

The Indianapolis Colts' signing of offensive tackle Nolan Rucci earns a **C+ Contract Value Index (CVI)** — a middling deal that reflects realistic depth-tackle value but carries modest upside in a preseason market. At $1.04M AAV on a three-year, $3.12M total commitment, Rucci's contract sits squarely in the replacement-to-solid-starter zone for the tackle position, a tier where marginal year-to-year production swings can make the difference between value and overpay. The structure suggests the Colts view him as a rotational or swing-tackle option rather than a long-term starter, which aligns with the modest AAV; this is a low-risk, low-reward proving ground ahead of the regular season. The CVI grade reflects decent cap efficiency — the deal won't handcuff Indianapolis' flexibility — but offers little margin for error if Rucci doesn't contribute at least average-to-solid-starter tape on film. For a team sitting at 8-9 and needing depth reinforcement before the September kickoff, this is a pragmatic, low-stakes investment rather than a statement move.