The Indianapolis Colts are poised to get one of their star defenders back from injured reserve, just in time to head into a three-week gauntlet of tough opponents, according to head coach Shane Steichen.
Today, Steichen announced that the team has opened the 21-day practice window to be activated from injured reserve for DeForest Buckner, who can now begin praticing immediately. He can be officially activated to play at any point over the next three weeks.
Per Coach Steichen, DeForest Buckner has been designated to return to practice. pic.twitter.com/tEVNNyIt3h
— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) October 23, 2024
In September, Buckner went down with an ankle injury during the Colts game against the Green Bay Packers. During the third quarter, Buckner's ankle could be seen rolling underneath him, and he couldn't leave the field on his own. It became even more clear how bad the injury was once he made it to the bench; there, he couldn't bear any weight on his leg at all, and ultimately, he had to be carted off the field.
Buckner signed with the Colts in 2020, and has been a standout since day one. He has recorded at least seven sacks each year, and until now, hadn't missed a single game due to injury. Overall, in his five years with the Colts, he has 34 sacks, 89 quarterback hits, and 43 tackles for a loss. He has also been named to the Pro Bowl three times, and once to first-team All-Pro.
Replay of #Colts DT DeForest Buckner’s right ankle sprain. His ankle got pinned underneath Packers RB Emanuel Wilson and teammate EJ Speed.
— James Boyd (@RomeovilleKid) September 16, 2024
Buckner was limping very badly afterward, as seen on TV. Again, X-rays were negative, per a league source. Now, we await the MRI results. pic.twitter.com/n4HF4dqMju
Additionally, Steichen said that running back Jonathan Taylor will be returning.
Taylor was injured in the Colts Week 4 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he suffered a high ankle sprain. Despite reportedly being a mild injury, Taylor hasn't practiced for three weeks. His presence will be a huge boost to the offense, as Taylor has been a consistent playmaker for the Colts offense. He has been a frequent leader in the NFL for rushing yards, and is currently projected to get nearly 1,500 yards this season.
Both players, according to Steichen, will be practicing today - a huge relief for Colts fans, as the team will need their strongest weapons over the next few weeks.