Former Notre Dame and current Indianapolis Colts offensive guard Quenton Nelson signed his rookie contact on Friday. It was a big day for the former Irish standout, his family and the Colts’ organization.

Quenton Nelson

The four-year deal is worth $23,888,912 and comes with an option for a fifth year. This contact also includes a signing bonus of $15,453,752. In addition, his entire contract is guaranteed.

Nelson was selected No. 6 overall in the 2018 NFL Draft and was the first offensive lineman taken. Following the draft, Colts general manager Chris Ballard told reporters that Nelson was “the easiest pick I’ve ever been a part of” and praised the former Fighting Irish standout for his potential and high ceiling. Ballard added “God made him a little bit different than He made everyone else.”

His addition to the Colts roster is not only important for the health of quarterback Andrew Luck, as Nelson will help keep the star signal-caller upright, but he will quickly improve the run game. Last season, Indianapolis gave up a league-high 56 sacks and was only able to run for an average of 3.7 yards per carry. Nelson will positively impact the Colts on both fronts.

Nelson wasn’t the only offensive lineman taken by the Colts in the 2018 NFL Draft. Former Auburn offensive guard Braden Smith was selected by Indianapolis in the second round with the No. 37 overall pick. The “best blocker in the SEC” according to NFL Network’s Mike Mayock, Smith will team up with Nelson and immediately improve Indianapolis’ offensive line. Smith was recently asked about his new teammate.

“You can tell why he went No. 6 overall,” said Smith of Nelson. “He’s a damn good football player.”

Following Nelson’s signature, the day’s most amusing note came when it was revealed that Colts’ kicker Adam Vinatieri actually played his first game back in 1996, which happened to be the same year Nelson, his new teammate, was born. In addition, Vinatieri actually played his first game before two other players currently taking part in the Indianapolis rookie minicamp were even born. Running back Nyheim Hines was born on Nov. 12, 1996 and cornerback Henre' Toliver was born on Oct. 21, 1996. Vinatiieri’s made his NFL debut in September of that year.

Nelson was outstanding during his time in South Bend. For his efforts last season, he became Notre Dame’s 34th unanimous All-American in school history. He was a first-team All-American according to the American Football Coaches Association, The Sporting News, The Walter Camp Football Foundation and Associated Press. He is the first Irish offensive lineman to earn this honor since offensive tackle Aaron Taylor did so back in 1993.

Other recent unanimous All-Americans from Notre Dame include linebacker Manti Te’o (2012), wide receiver Golden Tate (2009) and cornerback Shane Walton (2002).