Buckner’s Comeback: Can He Still Dominate | Indianapolis Colts News

DeForest Buckner, the Colts’ bruising defensive tackle and three-time Pro Bowler, is back for his 11th season despite a brutal injury-filled 2024 that saw him miss 12 games and undergo neck surgery. After nearly walking away this offseason, Buckner’s return is a high-stakes gamble for Indy — they’re counting on the 30-year-old to reclaim his elite form, even as he’s been left off top-10 rankings but still earns honorable mentions. An anonymous coach insists he’s “still elite — just older and injured,” and the stats back that up: his pressure rate remains All-Pro level, and he was on pace for nearly seven sacks if he’d played full time. Now, Buckner’s focus turns to training camp, where he’s already adjusting his game and rebuilding strength — even lifting his kids again. If he can stay healthy and adapt, Buckner could be the game-changing force the Colts desperately need. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/767c6815f0d0caea