Colts trade DeForest Buckner for 2027 fourth-round pick

The Indianapolis Colts sent DeForest Buckner back to the San Francisco 49ers on Thursday in exchange for a 2027 fourth-round draft pick. The trade reunites the defensive tackle with the franchise that drafted him and marks the end of a seven-year stint in Indianapolis.

Grover Stewart, who has played next to Buckner for seven seasons, described the departure as painful. Stewart called Buckner his best friend and part of a dynamic duo that formed a bond he described as unbreakable. He said seeing his close friend leave the organization took a personal toll.

Buckner served as a team captain during every season he spent with the Colts. Stewart noted that Buckner was an outspoken leader who consistently supported his teammates. With Buckner gone, Stewart said the responsibility falls to him to maintain the standards set during the veteran’s tenure. He plans to lead the younger players and manage the locker room through the transition.

Stewart is in the final year of a three-year contract worth $39 million that he signed in March 2024. The Colts are currently in the midst of a major roster overhaul. General Manager Chris Ballard was fired, and longtime offensive guard Quenton Nelson was traded to Seattle. Stewart said he focuses on performing his duties to stay grounded amid the uncertainty.

The 33-year-old defensive tackle was selected by the Colts in the fourth round of the 2017 NFL Draft. The NFL trade deadline is set for Tuesday, Nov. 10, at 4 p.m. Stewart said he will decide on his future after the season concludes if he remains in Indianapolis.

The Colts, who hold a 2-5 record, will play the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday, Nov. 1. The Jaguars currently hold a 4-2 record.