Getty
The Indianapolis Colts have several players on the trade block heading into Week 7.
In the mix is a 32-year-old defensive tackle who one NFL writer named a fit for an NFC contender.
Colts’ DeForest Buckner Named Fit for NFC Team
DeForest Buckner
GettyPITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA – NOVEMBER 02: DeForest Buckner #99 of the Indianapolis Colts warms up against the Pittsburgh Steelers in the game at Acrisure Stadium on November 02, 2025 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images)
According to Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report, Buckner could find his new home with the San Francisco 49ers.
He suspects that with the recent firing of Chris Ballard, roster changes may be coming soon.
“Interim general manager Ed Dodds — along with franchise ownership — may soon consider selling off pieces, as the Miami Dolphins did after firing GM Chris Grier last season,” he wrote. “DeForest Buckner would be a logical trade chip if that is the case. Premier defensive tackles generally command strong returns, and Buckner is still one of those, even at 32.”
Knox added, “The three-time Pro Bowler is also playing in the final year of his current contract. Trading him would provide some cap relief while allowing the Colts to acquire something in return for a player who could leave in free agency next spring.”
DeForest Buckner
GettyDeForest Buckner #99 of the Indianapolis Colts reacts after recovering a fumble against the Baltimore Ravens during the second quarter of the game at Lucas Oil Stadium on September 13, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana.
This marks Buckner’s 11th season in the NFL.
While the majority of his career — seven years — has been spent in Indianapolis, he spent his first four seasons with the 49ers.
Perhaps a reunion is overdue?
The 49ers selected him with the No. 7 pick in the first round of the 2016 NFL draft.
So far this season, he has logged 26 total tackles (nine solo, 17 assisted) with four sacks.
Last year, he registered 47 total tackles (30 solo, 17 assisted) with four sacks.
A reunion between San Francisco and Buckner would be interesting, and he has expressed frustration with the Colts’ performance this season.
The reliable pass-rushing interior defensive lineman is likely to draw plenty of interest.
Enter Heavy's 2026 Pro Football Pick'em contest
Maria Aldrich Maria Aldrich is a dedicated sportswriter who focuses on Major League Baseball for Heavy.com. In recent years, she has landed bylines across On SI, part of the Sports Illustrated network, and Last Word On Sports. Outside of writing, Maria hosts the Bleav in Texas Rangers podcast, where she provides baseball fans with the latest news, rumors and analysis. More about Maria Aldrich
0 Comments