Colts defense could be at a disadvantage if DeForest Buckner is sidelined with an injury
The Indianapolis Colts announced that DeForest Buckner is dealing with an injury. It would be bad for Indy if he has to miss Sunday’s game.
On Sunday, the Indianapolis Colts will play the Jacksonville Jaguars in a Week 2 matchup. After a tie with the Houston Texans in Week 1, getting embarrassed by the Jaguars in Week 18 of last season, and not winning in Jacksonville since 2014, this is a big game for the Colts. Unfortunately, one of Indy’s best player’s status for the game is in question.
It was reported Wednesday that defensive tackle, DeForest Buckner, was not practicing, and following Indy’s practice, Buckner’s name popped up on the injury report with a hip injury. Buckner missed both Wednesday’s and Thursday’s practice but the team didn’t offer any additional details. So, there’s no telling if the injury was severe enough to really keep him out of practice or if the team just allowed him a rest day since he is a seven-year veteran playing a very physical position.
Hopefully, it’s the latter. Buckner hasn’t missed much action in his career, playing in 96 of 98 possible games. A two-time Pro Bowler, it would really impact the Colts if he did have to miss time, especially with the game on Sunday in Jacksonville.
Colts All-Pro DT DeForest Buckner isn't practicing today, but he doesn't look particularly hurt and wasn't in the training room during open locker room period.
— Stephen Holder (@HolderStephen) September 14, 2022
This is my way of saying that dude is playing Sunday bc that's what he does.
Colts need DeForest Buckner against Jaguars
While the Jaguars aren’t the most threatening team, they do have a lot of talent and Indy typically struggles with them regardless. However, this would be an especially tough matchup for the Colts if Buckner isn’t able to go. The reason being is that Jacksonville is a team that can run the ball.
In Week 1 against the Washington Commanders, the Jaguars ran the ball just 18 times for 123 yards. That’s 6.8 yards a carry. Obviously, the Colts aren’t the Commanders, Indy has a much better run defense. But, Indianapolis could be without two of its best run defenders.
All-Pro linebacker, Shaquille Leonard, didn’t suit up with Indy in Week 1. While he did have a full practice on Wednesday, his status for Sunday is still in question. If he and Buckner are on the sideline against Jacksonville, there will be a noticeable void in the middle of Indy’s defense. The Colts have great defensive depth, but it’s hard to replace two All-Pro players. Let’s hope that Buckner, and possibly Leonard, can be on the field for Indianapolis Sunday.
