INJURY UPDATE: Colts Receive Major Boost With DeForest Buckner Trending Up, But Lose Defensive Superstar Ahead of Critical Showdown vs. Jaguars

Indianapolis, Indiana – December 6, 2025

The Indianapolis Colts enter one of the most pivotal weeks of their AFC South race with a mix of encouraging momentum and frustrating setback. According to reporter Joel A. Erickson, star defensive tackle DeForest Buckner is “progressing really well” and the team is “hoping he returns sooner rather than later.” With his recovery ahead of schedule, there is growing optimism inside the building that Buckner could be back as early as next week — a development that instantly energized Colts Nation.

During Buckner’s absence, Indianapolis felt the impact. The defense struggled to generate consistent interior pressure, and opposing offenses found success running straight through the heart of the line. Even in limited practice participation, Buckner’s presence has already shifted the tone. Coaches noted that “the defense immediately felt like its most dangerous version again,” reinforcing how vital he is to the unit’s identity.

But that wave of good news was quickly followed by a tough blow. Newly acquired cornerback Sauce Gardner, expected to become a centerpiece of the secondary, suffered a hip injury during midweek practice and has officially been ruled out for Sunday’s matchup against the Jaguars. It’s a significant loss, especially with Jacksonville featuring one of the hottest receiving duos in the league: Christian Kirk and Brian Thomas Jr.

Gardner, despite being newly integrated into the system, had already impressed with his physical press-man coverage, wide defensive radius, and sharp route recognition. He was viewed as the missing piece to help Indianapolis eliminate explosive plays — an issue that plagued them earlier in the season. Without him, defensive coordinator Gus Bradley will need to pivot, giving heavier snaps to JuJu Brents and Dallis Flowers, while likely asking Julian Blackmon to provide additional support over the top.

With the AFC South standings tightening, every possession and every matchup carries weight. Buckner’s potential return — even in limited form — could drastically alter the trenches by applying pressure on Trevor Lawrence and reducing the burden on a short-handed secondary. Still, losing Gardner creates a strategic challenge at a moment when the Jaguars’ offense is gaining rhythm and confidence.

It’s a week defined by dual emotions: hope restored through the possible return of a franchise cornerstone, and concern sparked by the absence of a newly added defensive star. The Colts still have a prime opportunity to seize control of the division, but doing so will require depth, discipline, and resilience as they enter one of their toughest tests of the season.