When looking at the biggest move the Indianapolis Colts made this offseason—trading for defensive tackle DeForest Buckner—most of the time it is met with immense praise.
Getting an All-Pro caliber talent at a premium position for a first-round pick was a no-brainer for the Colts. Sure it was expensive, and the opportunity cost is something that is always valued when making deals. But for the most part, it made plenty of sense for the Colts.
However, Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report feels differently. He believes it could be a move that Indy comes to regret.
New Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle DeForest Buckner is a terrific player. He produced 19.5 sacks and 129 tackles over the past two seasons, which are ridiculous numbers for an interior defensive lineman.
However, it’s worth noting that Buckner played in a tremendous San Francisco 49ers defensive front that also featured the likes of Arik Armstead and Solomon Thomas over the last two seasons, as well as Defensive Rookie of the Year Nick Bosa in 2019.
There’s no guarantee Buckner can be the same dominant defender for the Colts, which is why giving up the 13th overall pick in the draft to get him could be a regrettable move. The Colts are hoping to revitalize Philip Rivers’ quarterbacking career and could have used that pick on targets like CeeDee Lamb or Jerry Jeudy.
Additionally, the Colts signed Buckner to a four-year, $84 million extension upon acquiring him. That could prove problematic down the line when players like All-Pro guard Quenton Nelson and Indianapolis’ future franchise quarterback are due new deals of their own.
Trading for Buckner was the sort of win-now move that Indianapolis wasn’t really in a position to make.
Giving up the No. 13 pick couldn’t have been an easy move for the Colts, especially given how much general manager Chris Ballard likes draft picks.
Missing out on a talent like Jeudy or Lamb is something that should be noted. However, they did come away with Michael Pittman Jr., who is talented enough in his own right to be the future of the wide receiver room.
Buckner’s addition to the defensive line will do wonders for the entire unit. Whether it’s shooting through the gaps and generating pressure himself or taking on double teams and freeing up the gaps for the rest of the front seven, he’s a wonderful addition to the room.
Buyer’s remorse is a real thing, but the Colts shouldn’t be feeling that at all when it comes to the deal made to acquire Buckner.