Buckner’s Health Decides Colts’ Defense | Indianapolis Colts News

DeForest Buckner’s health is the biggest question mark for the Indianapolis Colts heading into the 2026 season, as the 32-year-old defensive tackle battles to recover from neck surgery and a recurring disc injury that sidelined him last year. A two-time All-Pro and franchise cornerstone, Buckner’s absence—or even a decline in performance—could cripple the Colts’ pass rush and defensive identity. Despite missing 12 games over the past two seasons, his impact has been so profound that offenses have had to adjust their entire game plans. He showed flashes of his old self last season with four sacks in 10 games, but reaggravated his injury, raising serious doubts about his ability to return to elite form. With Week One against the Ravens looming, Buckner’s recovery and readiness will be the defining storyline for the Colts’ defense in 2026.

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