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DeForest Buckner returns to Indianapolis Colts after considering retirement

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 11, 2026, 3:12 AM

Last updated Sep 11, 2026

DeForest Buckner returns to Indianapolis Colts after considering retirement

Summary

Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle DeForest Buckner confirmed his return for his 11th NFL season following a significant neck injury. The veteran player admitted to contemplating retirement after suffering a herniated disc during a Week 9 game against the Pittsburgh Steelers last season. The injury caused temporary loss of feeling in his upper body and necessitated a surgical procedure that ended his 2025 campaign. Following a lengthy rehabilitation process throughout the offseason, Buckner increased his practice workload during training camp in August. He stated that his neck responded well during conditioning and preparation for the upcoming Week 1 opener. Buckner expressed that his decision to continue playing was influenced by his personal resolve to return to the field for the team.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•DeForest Buckner suffered a herniated disc against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 9 last season.
•The injury resulted in a temporary loss of feeling in his upper body.
•Buckner considered retirement before deciding to continue his 11-year career.
•The team gradually increased his practice workload throughout training camp.

Latest Updates

3:12 AMYahoo Sports — Colts’ DeForest Buckner Gets Honest About Return After Suffering Neck Injury
10:26 PMYahoo Sports — Why Colts DeForest Buckner returned for another season

What they're saying

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Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle DeForest Buckner opens up after surgery a neck injury in the 2025 season. The post Colts’ DeForest Buckner Gets Honest About Return After Suffering Neck Injury appeared first on HEAVY.
— Yahoo Sports