DeForest Buckner Fantasy

Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle DeForest Buckner (ankle) returned to practice on Thursday after sitting out on Wednesday. Strong safety Khari Willis (concussion) was also practicing without a non-contact jersey, which likely indicates that he's cleared the concussion protocol and should be good to play in the wild-card game against the Bills on Saturday. Buckner, who ranked fourth in overall fantasy points among defensive linemen in the regular season, is a crucial player for the defensive line. They'll need him if they hope to slow down a high-scoring Bills offense led by quarterback Josh Allen. The Colts Defense has had their ups and downs in 2020, but for the most part they were one of the better defenses in the league. However, against this strong Buffalo offense, most fantasy managers will be looking for better plays during wild-card weekend.

Jan. 7th • 1:26 PM

The Indianapolis Colts activated defensive tackle DeForest Buckner from the Reserve/COVID-19 list on Friday, and he's eligible to play in Week 13 against the Texans. Without Buckner and sack leader Denico Autry on the defensive line last week, Derrick Henry and the Titans ran all over the Colts Defense and imposed their will. Both Buckner and Autry have been taken off the COVID-19 list and will play on Sunday, so Indianapolis' defense will be much more attractive as a fringe fantasy unit in 12- and 14-team leagues this weekend. Buckner has recorded 40 tackles (23 solo), 16 QB hits, one fumble recovery and 2.5 sacks in his first 10 games for the Colts this year after being a Pro Bowler with the 49ers in 2018. You can insert him back into starting lineups in IDP leagues.

Dec. 4th • 11:13 AM

Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle DeForest Buckner is on the Reserve/COVID-19 list after testing positive for the virus, not as a high-risk close contact. Buckner is officially out for Week 12 against the division-rival Titans. It's a big loss for the strong Colts Defense, as the former 49ers pass-rush and 2019 second-team All-Pro has 2.5 sacks and four tackles for loss in his first year with the Colts. Buckner also has 40 tackles (23 solo), 16 QB hits and one fumble recovery as a constant backfield disruptor, so the rest of Indy's defense must step up to help stop Ryan Tannehill and Derrick Henry on Sunday. The 26-year-old ranks 18th among all defensive lineman in fantasy points for those in IDP leagues this year, so you'll need to look in another direction this week if you had been starting him on a weekly basis.

Nov. 27th • 10:58 AM