DeForest Buckner Return Timeline, Injury Update: Will the Colts DT Come Back After His Week 10 Neck Issue?

Indianapolis Colts head coach Shane Steichen shared a new update on DeForest Buckner’s recovery on December 5 in Indianapolis. The star defensive tackle has been on injured reserve since suffering a neck injury in Week 10. Steichen said Buckner is “progressing really well” as the team evaluates his return timeline.

The Colts placed Buckner on injured reserve after the game against Atlanta on November 10. He has now missed four straight games but is eligible to return in Week 15 against Seattle. The team continues to monitor his neck injury while preparing for a crucial stretch of the season.

Latest Injury Details and What the Colts Expect Next

Steichen offered a brief but optimistic outlook on Buckner’s progress. He said the hope is that Buckner returns “sooner rather than later.” This aligns with the defensive tackle’s eligibility window, which opens next week.

Buckner’s value to the Colts remains clear even while sidelined. He ranks second on the team in quarterback pressures despite missing multiple games. According to PFF, Buckner is also 13th among NFL defensive tackles in run defense tackles this season. Those rankings underline his all-around impact on the unit.

The Colts’ run defense has weakened without Buckner. Opponents have surpassed 100 rushing yards in each of the past two games. This has made third-down situations more manageable for opposing offenses. Indianapolis has leaned heavily on Grover Stewart and Adetomiwa Adebawore in his absence, while Neville Gallimore and Chris Wormley filled rotational roles.

Trusted outlets including the Associated Press and ESPN reported similar defensive trends in recent weeks. Buckner’s ability to create interior pressure and stabilize run defense is a key factor in Indianapolis’ overall performance.

How Buckner’s Return Could Shift the Colts’ Defense

The Colts have held their playoff position but have shown signs of stress up front. Buckner’s return would bring immediate stability to a defensive line that has fought to manage workloads and maintain efficiency.

His presence often forces double teams. That opens lanes for edge rushers and improves gap control. The Colts have built much of their defensive identity around his production since 2020. A return next week could significantly influence their late-season outlook.

The Colts will continue evaluating Buckner over the coming days. The updated return timeline will guide how Indianapolis plans its defensive rotations. His injury update remains one of the team’s most important storylines heading into Week 14.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the latest DeForest Buckner return timeline?

He is eligible to return in Week 15 against Seattle. Shane Steichen said he is progressing well. The Colts will monitor his status daily.

Q2: How long has DeForest Buckner been out?

He has missed four games since suffering a neck injury in Week 10. He was placed on injured reserve shortly after the Atlanta game.

Q3: How has the Colts defense performed without Buckner?

Opponents rushed for more than 100 yards in each of the last two games. The Colts have rotated several linemen to fill his role.

Q4: What does DeForest Buckner add to the defense?

He provides interior pressure and strong run defense. He ranks near the top of the team and league in several defensive metrics.

Q5: When could the Colts offer the next injury update?

Updates are expected during practice sessions next week. The team will evaluate whether Buckner can be activated.