The Indianapolis Colts will be without three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle DeForest Buckner for at least four games after placing him on injured reserve on Tuesday due to a sprained right ankle.
Buckner has been a crucial player for the Colts since they acquired him in 2020, having missed only one game prior to this season—when he was on the COVID-19 list in November 2020.
He has played through various injuries, including a back issue that worsened during a loss to Houston in Week 1.
“He’s a strong presence in the defensive line room and throughout the entire defense,” said defensive coordinator Gus Bradley before the announcement. “The players look to him and trust him on the field, knowing he will give his all.”
This comes at a difficult time for the Colts, who are currently allowing the most rushing yards in the league at 474, including two players rushing for over 100 yards in the first two weeks.
The Colts’ defense is becoming increasingly fragile. Last Tuesday, they placed starting cornerback JuJu Brents on injured reserve due to a knee injury, and starting safety Julian Blackmon missed the Week 2 loss against Green Bay because of a shoulder injury.
Rookie pass rusher Laiatu Latu, selected as the first defensive player in the April draft, sustained a hip injury on Sunday and did not return to the game.
With Buckner sidelined, the Colts will need other players to step up starting Sunday against the Chicago Bears. Those expected to take on his responsibilities include Grover Stewart, Raekwon Davis, Adetomiwa Adebawore, and Taven Bryan.
“We’ll use those guys and position them to give them the best chance to succeed,” said Bradley, who has faced criticism for the defense’s sluggish start this season.
