Colts DT DeForest Buckner officially back, as Indy makes handful of roster moves Saturday

The Colts appear to have their best and most valuable defensive player back just in time for the Houston Texans.

The Indianapolis Colts have activated defensive tackle DeForest Buckner (ankle) off injured reserve, meaning he appears ready to go for Sunday’s game against their AFC South rival Houston Texans. Whether he’ll be on any sort of initial ‘pitch count,’ remains to be seen.

Fresh into his ‘21-day practice window’ with a designation to return off I.R., Buckner was a full participant during Thursday’s team practice, but appeared to rest on Friday. His return should be a big boost to the Colts defensive interior line as well as the unit collectively—as arguably its best, most valuable player. He’s the motor that powers them at the 3T spot, and the Colts have struggled replacing his sizable shoes during his absence—both in pass rushing and run defense.

The Colts also activated backup linebacker Cameron McGrone (elbow) off injured reserve, who should primarily contribute on special teams.

To free up active 53-man roster room for both players, the Colts placed rookie linebacker Jaylon Carlies (fibula/shoulder) on injured reserve—who’s expected to be out at least a few weeks. While with Jonathan Taylor’s return, the team waived backup running back Evan Hull.

The Colts also elevated cornerback Kelvin Joseph from the practice squad to the active roster, even though no other active cornerbacks currently have an injury designation.

Honestly, having already gotten starting quarterback Anthony Richardson back last week—along with a few other key veteran reinforcements, the Colts appear about as healthy as they’ve been since beginning the 2024 campaign.

It couldn’t come at a more opportune time either, with the Colts (4-3) looking to reclaim the division’s crown from the AFC South leading (and reigning division champ) Houston Texans (5-2).