The Indianapolis Colts may have flown under the radar last season, but they’re quietly stacking up offseason wins — at least in the eyes of NFL insiders. After Jonathan Taylor grabbed the No. 7 spot on ESPN’s list of top running backs, it’s now DeForest Buckner making noise.
On Tuesday, ESPN released its Top 10 Defensive Tackles in the NFL — and Buckner landed at No. 8. Not bad for a team coming off an 8-9 season and still searching for a clear identity.
> “The tallest player on this list (6-foot-7) continues to play big, averaging 8.4 sacks per season since 2018,” wrote ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler.
“The most underrated defensive player in the league,” added one high-ranking AFC personnel exec.
Since the Colts traded a first-round pick to the 49ers in 2020 to acquire Buckner, he’s been everything they hoped for and more. He signed a four-year, $84 million deal immediately after the trade — and has racked up 39 sacks, two Pro Bowls, and a first-team All-Pro nod.
Only Chris Jones (47.5 sacks) and Aaron Donald (39) have matched that level of productivity at the position.
A Dominant — and Underrated — Force
Buckner’s freakish frame (6’7″, 295 lbs.) sets him apart. He’s a matchup nightmare for offensive linemen and continues to be a disruptor on every down.
> “Despite missing five games last season, Buckner continues to disrupt opposing offensive lines,” Fowler continued.
“His 16.4% pass rush win rate ranked second among the top 10, trailing Jones. As multiple voters pointed out, Buckner isn’t in Tier 1 but will always hang around in the top 10 because of his consistency.”
“His game will age well because of his length, technique and high motor,” said an NFL personnel evaluator.
Buckner’s not flashy. He doesn’t light up highlight reels. But ask anyone in the trenches — he’s a nightmare to deal with and a glue guy on the Colts’ defense.
A Rare Trade That Paid Off
Blockbuster trades for star defenders don’t always work out — but Buckner has been a home run for GM Chris Ballard.
> “Honestly, trading for Buckner was one of the best moves of longtime general manager Chris Ballard’s tenure as the engine that has consistently driven their defense at the 3T position,” wrote Luke Schultheis of Stampede Blue.
“Featuring freakishly long arms, athleticism, and surprising quickness, Buckner has been a yearly interior pass rushing force for the Colts, consistently commanding double teams, and one of the legitimate stars on that side of the ball…
“When also factoring in his leadership, durability, and work ethic, he’s been as good as advertised, if not better — and well worth trading for on the Colts’ end.”
So while the Colts continue their climb back into serious AFC contention, DeForest Buckner remains their quiet, consistent wrecking ball — and now, he’s finally getting national recognition.
