Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle DeForest Buckner was ranked No. 71 in the NFL’s top 100 players of 2023 list.
A stalwart of the Colts defensive line since the 2020 season, Buckner has been nothing but consistent since the front office traded the No. 13 overall pick in exchange for the disruptive pass-rusher.
On the top 100 list, Buckner slotted in just ahead of quarterback Lamar Jackson, safety Budda Baker and wide receiver Garrett Wilson.
Buckner was once again a powerful presence in 2022 with eight sacks, 22 QB hits, three passes defense, two forced fumbles and 74 total tackles. Even though the Colts’ defense had a down season compared to year’s past, Buckner was the shining star on the defensive line and remains as the crucial building block in Indy as it goes into a new era.
Buckner may not get as much praise as he deserves, especially considering he’s among the leaders in defensive tackles who take on the most double teams from opposing offensive lines.
The Colts defense is going into its second season under coordinator Gus Bradley, which should help improve Buckner’s production as a gap-shooting three-technique.
And if Buckner can get some help from other players like Kwity Paye, Samson Ebukam and Dayo Odeyingbo, it’s not entirely bold to say Buckner could continue to put up strong numbers into his thirties.