Indianapolis Colts Aug 24, 2023; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Indianapolis Colts helmet on the field against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports

The Indianapolis Colts have been one of the biggest surprises in the NFL this season. Indianapolis is entering the weekend with the second-best record in the league at 7-2, behind only the 8-2 Denver Broncos.

Veteran quarterback Daniel Jones has been a breath of fresh air after two disappointing seasons of the Anthony Richardson experience, as he has led Indianapolis to a league-leading offense. Unfortunately, things on the defensive side of the ball have been a struggle this year for the Colts.

Things are now set to get even more difficult, as one of their standout defensive lineman has now been ruled out, according to one prominent league insider.

“Colts DE DeForest Buckner will not travel with the team to Berlin and has been ruled out of Sunday’s game vs. the Falcons due to a neck injury,” reported ESPN’s Adam Schefter on Thursday.

Fans reacted to the news on social media.

“A significant loss for the Colts defensive front. DeForest Buckner’s 91.5 pass rush grade and 13% pressure rate this season are both top 5 among interior defenders. His absence directly impacts a run defense that already ranks 28th in yards before contact,” one fan wrote on Twitter.

“Tough news for Buckner and the Colts , neck injuries are no joke, prioritizing health over the game is smart. Wishing him a speedy recovery; how do you think this impacts their playoff push? Fans, sound off!” someone else added.

It’ll be interesting to see if Jones and the Colts can keep things rolling.

About Qwame Skinner

Qwame Skinner has loved both writing and sports his entire life. In addition to his sports coverage at Comeback Media, Qwame writes novels, and his debut; The First Casualty, an adult fantasy, is out now.