Colts Trade Defensive Tackle DeForest Buckner to 49ers, Guard Quenton Nelson to Seahawks
Indianapolis continues a significant roster shake-up ahead of the NFL trade deadline.
The Indianapolis Colts have traded two significant defensive and offensive players, defensive tackle DeForest Buckner to the San Francisco 49ers and guard Quenton Nelson to the Seattle Seahawks, in moves made just ahead of the NFL's trade deadline on November 10th.
In the trade for Buckner, a 32-year-old defensive tackle, the Colts received a 2027 fourth-round draft pick. Buckner, who has recorded four sacks, eight quarterback hits, and 31 combined tackles in seven games this season, is an impending free agent. The 49ers, who have struggled with pass rushing, ranked tied for 20th in the league with 15 sacks so far this season, are expected to bolster their defensive line with Buckner's addition. Paired with Nick Bosa, who is expected to return from injury, San Francisco hopes to create a potent pass-rushing duo.
The Colts' decision to trade Buckner, a cornerstone player and defensive leader, is seen as part of a rebuilding process following a disappointing start to the season and the recent firing of general manager Chris Ballard. Despite Buckner's continued productivity, the team opted to acquire draft compensation, though the return was considered low for a player of his caliber, especially given his contract status.
In the deal involving Quenton Nelson, the Colts sent the eight-time Pro Bowler and six-time All-Pro selection to the Seattle Seahawks in exchange for a 2027 third-round pick and a 2028 fifth-round pick. Seahawks general manager John Schneider is credited with a "brilliant move" that significantly enhances protection for quarterback Sam Darnold and anchors the team's running attack. Seattle's acquisition of draft picks is bolstered by compensatory selections they are expected to receive, making the inclusion of a 2028 fifth-round pick more manageable for a player of Nelson's caliber.
The Nelson trade is viewed as the initiation of the Colts' "fire sale," as the team aims to accumulate draft assets to fuel its rebuild, particularly without a first-round pick in the upcoming draft. The Colts received a B+ grade for the Nelson trade, while the Seahawks received an A. For the Buckner trade, the 49ers received a B+ and the Colts a C+.