It’s the season of endless conjecture, what with free agency and the NFL Draft approaching. Bleacher Report (B/R) analyst David Kenyon came up with a five-trade plan to assemble the next great defense.
In exchange for only a second-round pick, he dealt defensive tackle DeForest Buckner of the Indianapolis Colts to the Cincinnati Bengals.
The Indianapolis Colts don’t really need to move DeForest Buckner because they have an abundance of cap room. He’s spent his four seasons in Indianapolis as a top performer, every time.
But Buckner is about to enter the last year of his deal.
The Colts should consider optimizing a return for the defensive tackle if they are inclined not to extend him. Even in the event of an aggressive 2024 NFL draft, the Cincinnati Bengals could afford to select Buckner with at least their second-round pick.
Even though Buckner only has one year left on his contract, a Pro Bowl defensive lineman in his prime is still worth more than a second-round choice in February unless he insists on making a move before the season begins. If the Colts are having trouble, this trade might make more sense at the NFL Trade Deadline on Halloween.
However, Buckner is a critical addition to the Colts, as they need to improve a defense that ranked 28th in scoring last season. Kenyon clarified that it’s extremely unlikely in his proposal.
A defensive tackle in the Pro Bowl—why wouldn’t it be a “massive, much-needed upgrade?” Why not tag and trade Chris Jones, a free agent from the Kansas City Chiefs, if he’s aiming high for defensive tackles who suit the bill?
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