Colts agree to two-year, $46 million contract extension with DT DeForest Buckner

The Indianapolis Colts handed defensive tackle DeForest Buckner another contract extension.

NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported Monday that the Colts and Buckner have agreed to a two-year extension worth $46 million, according to sources familiar with the situation. The news has since been confirmed by Indianapolis.

Buckner was scheduled to enter the final year of his initial four-year contract, worth $84 million, inked in Indy following a trade with the San Francisco 49ers.

At 30 years old, he continues to be a dominant force in interior defense. He necessitates double teams, has the ability to infiltrate and obstruct runs. He has demonstrated his worth as a significant component in the middle of Gus Bradley’s defense in Indy, capable of causing confusion to an entire offense.

Over the course of his four seasons with the Colts, he has received two Pro Bowl acknowledgments and was recognized as a first-team All-Pro in 2020. Buckner, known for his durability, hasn’t missed a single game in the last three seasons and is capable of playing all three downs. Considering his skill, physical fitness, and playing style, it’s probable that he will continue to perform well into his 30s, making this a wise agreement for the Colts.

Buckner ranks 7th among active interior defenders, with an average of $23 million per year in new money, according to Over The Cap.

Throughout his eight-season career, Buckner has accumulated 61 sacks, 544 tackles, 80 tackles for loss, and 161 QB hits.

Continuing an offseason trend in Indianapolis, the Colts have re-signed or extended contracts for 10 of their own players.