The Indianapolis Colts are enjoying their bye week in Week 11, and it’s safe to say that it has come at a good time for the team. After losing to the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 9, the Colts needed overtime to squeeze past the Atlanta Falcons in Week 10. Getting some time off should help several of Indianapolis’ banged-up players heal up for a potential postseason push.
One player who needs all the time off he can get is defensive tackle DeForest Buckner. One of the team’s top defensive stars, Buckner is currently on injured reserve with a neck injury, and according to the man himself, it seems like he is doing everything in his power to find a way to get back on the field as soon as possible.
DeForest Buckner Reveals Unique Treatment for Neck Injury
Buckner is in his sixth season with the Colts, and when he’s on the field, he’s one of the most dominant interior defensive linemen in the league. Staying healthy has become a bit of an issue for Buckner recently, as he’s going to miss at least four games after landing on injured reserve after sitting out five games for Indy last season thanks to an ankle injury.
Losing Buckner hurts, largely because he was in the process of putting together another strong campaign. In nine games, Bucker has racked up 42 tackles and four sacks, helping turn Indianapolis into one of the most feared teams in the league. Without him, the Colts’ front seven becomes a bit less menacing.
After sitting out the team’s win over the Falcons, Buckner will miss Indy’s next three games when it returns from its week off. Buckner, however, is making the most of his downtime, as he shared on social media that he traveled to Panama in order to receive stem cell injections as part of his treatment for his neck injury.
“Thank you Auragens Team for always helping me with my recovery,’’ Buckner said in a post on his Instagram story. “The comeback is going to be legendary.’’
Colts Hoping for Good News on DeForest Buckner’s Neck Injury
GettyIndianapolis Colts defensive lineman DeForest Buckner.
The initial details on Buckner’s neck injury have been relatively murky. The team is hopeful that he will be able to return at some point this season, but it refused to provide a potential timetable for his return. Right off the bat, that is a bit concerning, and while the Colts have built up a decent-sized lead in the AFC South division, they’d obviously rather play with Buckner than play without him.
The earliest Buckner can return is in Week 15, and by then, Indianapolis may have a bit more clarity on what the playoffs will look like for them. That could ultimately determine how aggressive they are in attempting to get him back on the field. For now, the Colts are enjoying their time off, but it won’t be long until they begin preparing for their upcoming contest against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 12.
Colts DT DeForest Buckner Reveals Latest Injury Update During Bye Week