Earlier this offseason, the Indianapolis Colts were able to acquire DeForest Buckner from the San Francisco 49ers in exchange for the No. 13 pick in the 2020 NFL Draft. Nearly two months after the move was made, Colts defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus highlighted what Buckner brings to Indianapolis.
“I’m like, ‘Well, at least you know what you’re getting with DeForest, exactly what you’re getting,’’’ Eberflus said on a conference call with beat reporters Monday, via Mike Chappell of FOX 59. You’re getting a Pro Bowl talent, a high-level player that’s dominated his position.’’
Instead of taking a shot in the dark in the 2020 NFL Draft, Eberflus was on board with getting Buckner. Buckner, who was San Francisco's first-round pick in 2016, has been one of the best interior defenders in the NFL since he was selected.
Over the course of his first two seasons, Buckner accumulated nine sacks, 12 tackles for loss, and 40 quarterback hits. Then, in the past two seasons alone, the Oregon product has notched a total of 19.5 sacks, 26 tackles for loss, and 34 quarterback hits.
For the Colts, Buckner is going to help shore up the interior of their defense. As a result, Eberflus believes the veteran's presence can have positive effects on the rest of the defense.
Besides Buckner, Indianapolis already boasts a defense with Darius Leonard and Justin Houston. Now, with Buckner in the mix, the Colts hope to see even more improvements on defense in 2020. Despite surrendering a first-round pick for him, Eberflus thinks that Buckner could change the outlook on Indianapolis' defense next season.
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