DeForest Buckner has been among the better defensive linemen in the NFL for several years now. He is versatile as he can stuff the run consistently while also putting pressure on opposing quarterbacks. While the Indianapolis Colts' defense hasn't been perfect this season, Buckner has played at a sensational level.
Unfortunately, Buckner hurt his neck in Indy's Week 9 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers and was placed on injured reserve ahead of Week 10. Any injury can be a lingering issue, of course, but neck problems can be life-altering. If Buckner can no longer play, it could be best for him as a human being.
But he still wants to play, and he is willing to do whatever it takes and in whatever location to help him return. This includes traveling to Panama to visit the Auragens Stem Cell Treatment Center to receive stem cell injections in hopes of his neck improving quickly.
Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle DeForest Buckner gives thanks
He visited the same center in 2024 to try to heal quickly from a high ankle sprain. He missed a total of five games with the injury.
The defensive lineman also posted his thanks to the facility on Instagram. No reason to ask Buckner if he thinks stem cell injections work; he feels as if he knows they do. The shame is that he had to get his passport ready to try to heal more quickly. The hope is that the stem injections will help currently, but also for many years from now.
On Instagram, Buckner wrote, "Thank you (Auragens) team for always helping me with my recovery. The best in the world. The comeback is going to be legendary."
Let's hope it all works out, of course, for the person and the player. DeForest Buckner is signed through 2026, and in the offseason of 2027, he will turn 33 years old. That is getting a bit old for a defensive lineman, but Buckner has sustained a high level of success and might be the rare player who continues to perform well into his mid-30s.
The three-time Pro Bowler has been a force for the Indianapolis Colts since 2020, and his absence will be felt against better teams. He has to miss at least three more games, but will be eligible to come off injured reserve in Week 15 when Indy plays the Seattle Seahawks. Let's hope he is able to do so without risking his long-term health.