DeForest Buckner

DeForest Buckner, an imposing figure at 6'7" and 295 pounds, has established himself as a dominant force in the NFL. Born on March 17, 1994, in Waianae, Hawaii, Buckner's journey to professional football began at Honolulu Punahou High School, setting the stage for a promising career. He honed his skills at the University of Oregon, where he played college football and was recognized for his exceptional performance on the field. His college career culminated in being drafted seventh overall by the San Francisco 49ers in the 2016 NFL Draft, marking the start of his professional journey. Buckner's impact on the field was immediate, showcasing his defensive prowess and versatility. Standing as a defensive tackle for the Indianapolis Colts, a position he transitioned to after his time with the 49ers, Buckner has been a cornerstone of their defense. Throughout his career, he has been celebrated for his defensive skills, racking up impressive stats that underline his importance to the team's defensive lineup. The 2024 NFL season highlights Buckner's continued excellence on the field. With a total of 6.5 sacks, 8 tackles for loss, and 61 combined tackles over 12 games, his contributions were instrumental in bolstering the Colts' defense. Furthermore, Buckner's ability to pressure quarterbacks, evidenced by his 14 quarterback hits and 5 hurries, has made him a key player in disrupting opposing offenses. His defensive efforts also include a batted pass and a defended pass, adding to his all-around capabilities on the field. Now in his ninth season, Buckner's experience and leadership have become invaluable to the Colts. His early life and background, coupled with his college career at Oregon, have shaped him into the elite player he is today. As he continues to build on his impressive NFL career, DeForest Buckner's role on the team and contributions to the game underscore his status as one of the league's top defensive talents.