4 Indianapolis Colts players the Chicago Bears should pursue this offseason
By Todd Welter
The Chicago Bears could trade for DeForest Buckner to upgrade the defensive line.
Buckner was a major force for Eberflus in their two seasons together. Buckner racked up 16.5 sacks and 20 tackles for losses when he lined up at defensive tackle for Eberflus between 2020-2021. He was named First-Team All-Pro after the 2020 season and made the Pro Bowl in 2021.
Buckner loved playing for Eberflus.
Colts DT DeForest Buckner on Matt Eberflus--
— Jason Lieser (@JasonLieser) February 5, 2022
"Flus was a great coach. I loved his philosophy & being all about playing fast. Guys bought into it, and the foundation he left is great...
“He’s definitely a calm guy, easy to talk to, very approachable. The Bears are in good hands.”
Eberflus’ defensive scheme requires a high-caliber talent at the three-technique defensive tackle position. The Chicago Bears could use a reunion after Larry Ogunjobi was not able to be signed this past offseason after he failed his physical.
With the #Colts in complete turmoil and obviously looking at starting from scratch, is it feasible Buckner is available this off-season? #Bears
— Michael Gus (@MichaelGus57) November 7, 2022
The Chicago Bears have the salary cap space to fit DeBuckner in if they traded for him in the offseason.
The Colts are likely heading towards an inevitable rebuild, so they might look to cut or trade DeForest Buckner this offseason to save $19.75 million.
— Jacob Infante (@jacobinfante24) November 7, 2022
If I'm the #Bears, I'm calling Indy nonstop to see Buckner's availability. The scheme-need-cap space fit makes too much sense.
The problem might be Poles not willing to give up the draft capital required if Poles decides to trade for Buckner. Buckner is on pace for another monster season after getting off to a slow start. He had no sacks, one tackle for a loss, and just two quarterback hits through his first three games. He has registered five sacks, four tackles for losses, and 11 quarterback hits.
Poles already traded away a second-round pick for wide receiver Chase Claypool. Poles may choose to go after Washington Commanders defensive tackle Daron Payne through free agency instead.