The Colts’ longtime tonesetter across the defensive front is back.
Indianapolis, IN — The Indianapolis Colts have received a big-time reinforcement ahead of their Monday Night Football matchup against the San Francisco 49ers.
Superstar defensive tackle DeForest Buckner (neck) has officially been activated from the injured reserve list after missing the last five games, a fitting return to the limelight as this is Indy’s first primetime matchup of the 2025-26 season, as well as being Lucas Oil Stadium’s sixth time hosting such an event.
Buckner had logged his first full practice since being placed on the injured reserve list on November 7th, with his subsequent full week of practice warranting his return amidst a (seemingly) lost season. It’s somewhat shocking that Buckner is back to finish the season, solely because head coach Shane Steichen only had hope that he’d be back whenever he was initially shut down.
The reason Buckner’s timetable to return was up in the air was due to the severity of his injury. Anything neck or back related is nothing to scoff at, and that’s precisely why neither the Colts nor Buckner could rush him back, regardless of what the playoff percentages suggest. When asked about the delicacy surrounding such an injury in media availability earlier this week, Buckner was open and honest.
“It’s one of those injuries that’s very serious,” Buckner explained. “It’s definitely a heavy burden on myself to make the decision. Obviously, I know what’s at stake [this season], but I also know what’s at stake for me long-term in my life.”
With a bye week lodged in between the five-game stretch in which he was unavailable, Buckner was allotted another week of rehab, resulting in enough progression to come back and finish the season strong. The Colts have three games remaining, including tonight’s matchup against the 49ers, with all three being must-win games.
Although they need additional help to get a shot at the playoffs, starting that stretch off with DeForest Buckner’s return against the team that drafted him, coupled with 44-year-old Philip Rivers remaining in the equation, offers entertainment value if nothing else.
In a corresponding move, the Indianapolis Colts waived quarterback Brett Rypien. For tonight’s matchup against the San Francisco 49ers, wide receiver Coleman Owen and guard Josh Sills have been elevated from the practice squad to the active roster.
Category: General Sports
