Colts defensive tackle DeForest Buckner underwent surgery earlier this offseason to repair a herniated disc that led to a compressed nerve in his neck. The injury sidelined Buckner for seven of the Colts' final eight games of the 2023 season.
Now, the 32-year-old defensive anchor has begun plyometric workouts to assess his mobility and resumed running this week. Buckner addressed his recovery progress on Tuesday, leaving open the possibility of a return for training camp.
“Obviously when things like that happen, I found myself [having] some deep, dark thoughts about what I’m gonna do. . . . Just talking through all the emotions. I’m gonna do whatever it takes to be out there by Week 1.”
Buckner, a three-time Pro Bowl selection, is in the final year of his contract with the Colts. His deal includes a $13 million base salary and a $26.6 million cap hit for the 2024 season.
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