DeForest Buckner with helmet on. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
A massive trade proposal idea has a top AFC team landing superstar defensive tackle DeForest Buckner from the Indianapolis Colts.

The Colts haven’t at all indicated that they’re shopping Buckner, but the 30-year-old is entering the final year on his contract. On top of that, the Colts have plenty of defensive line depth that includes Grover Stewart, Raekwon Davis, Kwity Paye, Samson Ebukam and Dayo Odeyingbo.

Bleacher Report’s David Kenyon recently proposed a blockbuster trade idea that has the Cincinnati Bengals acquiring Buckner from the Colts in exchange for the No. 49 selection in next month’s NFL Draft:
“Now, to be clear, this is a highly unlikely trade. But it sure would be a massive, much-needed upgrade for Cincinnati.

Last season, the Bengals yielded an NFL-worst 6.0 yards per play and an ugly 4.7 yards per carry. They already lack depth on the interior of the defensive line, and top starter DJ Reader is about to hit free agency.

Bringing in a player of Buckner’s caliber could quickly turn around a defense that was a strength for Cincy in 2022.”

The Cincinnati defense took a considerable step back in 2023, and their struggles on that side of the ball prevented the team from getting back into the postseason. Pairing Buckner with fellow star pass-rusher Trey Hendrickson could go a long way in helping Cincinnati return to championship contention.

Lou Anarumo’s defense has given Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes some issues, as evidenced by Joe Burrow’s 3-1 record against the league’s best player.

Mahomes and the Chiefs managed to win a second straight Super Bowl this past season, thanks largely to an elite offensive line that allowed No. 15 to take only five sacks in four postseason games.

So if the Colts are willing to listen to offers on Buckner, the Bengals should absolutely pursue a trade for the three-time Pro Bowler. The Bengals are among the few clubs who have constantly given Mahomes and company some problems, and Buckner’s presence could be the final piece needed to help Cincinnati emerge as the kings of the AFC.