The Indianapolis Colts face an uncertain season ahead with some shaky situations at certain positions, a head coach and general manager on the hot seat, and a division that seems impossible to win, never mind win enough games to make a wildcard slot.
The challenges will be many, but one element that Colts fans can appreciate is the eventual return of long-time veteran DeForest Buckner. The two-time All-Pro defensive tackle missed significant time last season due to a serious herniated disc in his neck that required surgery. Buckner came to Indianapolis six seasons ago and immediately inserted himself as a leader on and off the field.
Buckner has been quite open this offseason about the mental and emotional toll last season's injury brought upon him and his family, but as it stands today, he's gearing up for the new season. It's hard to say what level he'll be able to play at from the start, so it’s fair to ask what Buckner will be able to do for the Colts next season.
Latest ESPN positional rankings list drops Indianapolis Colts' DT DeForest Buckner out of top-10
Buckner has been elite at his position for the majority of his decade-plus NFL career. That said, until he takes the field and plays meaningful football again, there's no telling what level he'll be able to play at, especially in the beginning stages of the new season. Will he need a few weeks or half the season to rev back up? Or will he start where he left off?
The Colts are monitoring his recovery and offseason participation, and although it appears Buckner should be ready for Week 1, how much impact he'll have remains a concern. According to a recent rankings list of defensive tackles from ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, Buckner is out of the top 10 at that position.
According to Fowler, Buckner's removal from the top-10 is not play-related, but due to other reasons, and last season's injury could also have something to do with it.
"No real drop-off in his play. He's still elite -- just older and injured," an NFL defensive line coach told Fowler.
As far as impact is concerned, the Colts need their veteran, so the fact that his rehab is progressing successfully is good news for the team. With several questions about the defense still pending as training camp approaches, having Buckner's veteran presence would be a significant asset for the younger players as they embark on what’s shaping up to be a tough season.
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