Packers Could Pursue Colts Pro Bowler to Reinforce Defensive Line

WHO:

Heavy NFL - DeForest Buckner is 32 years old.

Heavy NFL - Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report identified Buckner as a fit for the San Francisco 49ers.

Newsweek - The Green Bay Packers and Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle DeForest Buckner are involved in a proposal for the Packers to target Buckner.

Heavy NFL - DeForest Buckner is described as a three-time Pro Bowler.

WHAT:

Heavy NFL - Buckner has a reported $46 million contract.

Newsweek - The Packers are being urged to pursue Buckner in a trade to bolster their defense.

Heavy NFL - A trade proposal would send Buckner to Green Bay in exchange for a fourth-round pick.

WHERE:

Heavy NFL - The separate proposed destination for Buckner is San Francisco, an NFC contender.

Newsweek - Buckner plays for the Indianapolis Colts; the Packers are based in Green Bay.

Heavy NFL - The proposed trade would involve the Indianapolis Colts and Green Bay Packers.

WHY:

Heavy NFL - The proposal is linked to a front-office shakeup in Indianapolis, Buckner’s frustration, and injuries to Green Bay’s defense.

HOW:

Heavy NFL - The proposal would reinforce Green Bay’s defense by acquiring Buckner for a fourth-round pick.

(UPDATED October 22, 2026 02:14 UTC)

The Green Bay Packers are being urged to trade for Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle DeForest Buckner to strengthen their defense. One proposal would send the 32-year-old to Green Bay in exchange for a fourth-round pick. The idea is tied to a front-office shakeup in Indianapolis, reported frustration from Buckner, and injuries affecting the Packers’ defense. Buckner is a three-time Pro Bowler and has a reported $46 million contract. A separate assessment has identified him as a possible fit for the San Francisco 49ers, an NFC contender. That would make San Francisco another proposed destination, distinct from the trade scenario involving Green Bay and Indianapolis. The Packers’ interest centers on adding a proven defensive presence, while the proposed deal would give the Colts a draft pick in return. No completed trade is described; the move remains a proposal.

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(UPDATED October 21, 2026 20:27 UTC)

The Green Bay Packers are being urged to trade for Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle DeForest Buckner to strengthen their defense. One proposal would send the three-time Pro Bowler to Green Bay in exchange for a fourth-round pick. The suggested deal comes as the Packers contend with injuries on defense, while Indianapolis is facing a front-office shakeup. Buckner’s reported frustration is also cited as a factor behind the proposal. The trade would bring an experienced defender to Green Bay and give the Colts a draft selection in return. The proposal involves the two teams, but it remains a suggested move rather than a completed deal. Buckner currently plays for Indianapolis, and the Packers would be seeking to bolster their defensive line by adding him.