Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle DeForest Buckner has been sidelined from practicing for a few days, with no official word on why.
On Thursday, ESPN’s Stephen Holder reported that head coach Shane Steichen said Buckner is dealing with a back injury. Holder believes Buckner will be back “soon” and be ready in time for Indy’s season opener Sept. 7 against the Dolphins.
It’s good news for the Colts defender, who is a key piece of their starting lineup. However, Buckner and the rest of the Colts starting lineup will not play in the team’s final preseason matchup with the Bengals on Saturday.
Indy’s squad is already dealing with a slew of injuries, but are getting back healthy at the right time. Kwity Paye, Alec Pierce, Jaylon Jones, JuJu Brents, Bernhard Raimann and Kenny Moore II were among those who returned to practice in some capacity this week.
Nick Cross, Tyler Goodson, Jaylon Carlies and Josh Downs are among those who remain sidelined.
#Colts not practicing:
— James Boyd (@RomeovilleKid) August 21, 2025
SS Nick Cross (hip), RT Braden Smith (groin), DT DeForest Buckner (undisclosed), DE Samson Ebukam (back), WR Josh Downs (hamstring)
Buckner is the one to watch, however, as his absence on the defense takes away a clear edge at the line of scrimmage for Lou Anarumo.