Defensive Tackle DeForest Buckner had to be carted off the field in during the Week 2 Packers-Colts game in Lambeau Field in a crushing blow to an already-struggling defense.
Buckner was a standout during the Colts Week 1 game against the Texans, leading the pass rush with 1.5 sacks and six tackles. Yet in the final moments of the game, he was clearly in pain, and exited the game early. Throughout the week, Buckner did not practice, and his status was listed as questionable. Ultimately, though, Buckner suited up and took to the field. And the Colts defense was surely relying on him; they had already lost safety Julian Blackmon to a shoulder injury.
DeForest Buckner is hurt and i am sad pic.twitter.com/A0tfRVYyu8
— csb (@itsCSB__) September 15, 2024
In the third quarter, Buckner's leg could be seen rolling underneath him during a play, and he had to be helped, limping, off the field. From the bench, he tried to stand, but his ankle was unable to support his weight. Ultimately, he had to be carted off the field and into the locker room. He is said to have suffered an unspecified ankle injury.
Buckner is one player the defense will surely be devastated to lose; in addition to his leadership role as one of the team captains, he is a tremendous defender that the Colts clearly need. This is his fifth season with the Colts, and he has been named to the All-Pro Team once, and selected to the Pro Bowl twice. He has averaged 54 pressures and eight sacks each season he has played with Indianapolis.
Laiatu Latu has a hip injury, and he's been declared out.
— Joel A. Erickson (@JoelAErickson) September 15, 2024
Laiatu Latu soon followed Buckner with a hip injury in the waning moments of the fourth quarter. Latu recovered a fumble in the end zone, and Colts fans have had high expectations for his future with the team. He has been the frontrunner prediction to win Defensive Rookie of the Year, and losing him for the season will be another shocking blow for an already-battered Colts defense.