The Indianapolis Colts have been focused on re-signing players from their 2023 team this offseason, and now it’s DeForest Buckner’s turn. The team announced on Monday that they have extended their highly productive defensive tackle. While the details of the extension were not disclosed by the Colts, reports indicate that Buckner will be paid $46 million to stay with the team for another two years, tying him to the Colts through 2026.
Buckner, who is entering his ninth NFL season and fifth with the Colts, was drafted seventh overall by the San Francisco 49ers in 2016. He has lived up to the expectations of being a high draft pick, with an impressive stat line including 166 solo tackles, 32.5 sacks, 42 tackles for loss, 87 QB hits, and six forced fumbles. Additionally, he has been selected to the Pro Bowl three times. The Colts acquired Buckner through a trade with the 49ers in March 2020, giving up their first-round draft pick as compensation.
With the re-signing of Buckner and other key players like wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. and cornerback Kenny Moore, the Colts have brought back 10 players from their 2023 team. Despite a 9-8 record in
