NFL SHOCKER: DeForest Buckner Threatens Departure Over Contract Dispute, Shane Steichen’s Response Sends Ripples Through Colts Nation
In a bombshell revelation that could drastically alter the trajectory of the Indianapolis Colts’ 2025 season, All-Pro defensive tackle DeForest Buckner has reportedly informed team officials that he is prepared to walk away from the team if his current salary isn’t revised upward before the season begins.
Buckner, a cornerstone of the Colts’ defense since arriving from San Francisco in 2020, currently carries a $26.6 million cap hit for the 2025 season—already one of the highest among NFL defensive players. However, sources close to the situation indicate Buckner feels his on-field production, veteran leadership, and market value justify a restructured or extended deal with more guaranteed money.
> “DeForest wants to win in Indy, but he also wants to be compensated fairly in line with the league’s top defenders,” a source close to Buckner told reporters on Wednesday. “If the team can’t meet him halfway, he’s ready to explore other opportunities.”
SHANE STEICHEN’S COMMENTS SEND SHOCKWAVES
Colts head coach Shane Steichen was peppered with questions during his Wednesday press conference following the news of Buckner’s potential departure—and his response left the NFL world stunned.
> “We love DeForest. He’s a great player and leader, but no one is bigger than the team,” Steichen said pointedly. “If he doesn’t want to be here under the current terms, then we have to focus on the guys who do.”
The uncharacteristically blunt tone from Steichen caught fans and analysts off guard, especially given Buckner’s respected presence in the locker room and elite performance on the field. Some insiders believe Steichen’s comments could be a calculated move to push back in negotiations—or signal a genuine readiness to move on if a deal can’t be reached.
THE NUMBERS BEHIND THE TENSION
Buckner, 31, recorded 9.5 sacks, 14 tackles for loss, and 3 forced fumbles in 2024, solidifying his status as one of the most disruptive interior linemen in the NFL. While age is beginning to factor into long-term evaluations, his impact remains unquestioned.
Yet, with the Colts recently committing major dollars to quarterback Anthony Richardson and preparing for future extensions for young stars like Kwity Paye and Michael Pittman Jr., financial flexibility is tight.
The Colts currently have just under $12 million in available cap space, meaning a renegotiation with Buckner would likely require a restructuring of other contracts or a release/trade of current contributors.
WHAT’S NEXT?
With training camp just weeks away, the Colts are facing an uncomfortable decision:
Do they meet Buckner’s demands and extend a key veteran’s deal?
Or do they risk losing one of their top defenders and potentially fracturing locker room chemistry?
NFL insiders have already begun speculating on potential landing spots if Buckner becomes available, with the Detroit Lions, Baltimore Ravens, and even a return to the 49ers being floated as options.
In the meantime, Colts fans are holding their breath, as what seemed like a promising 2025 campaign is now clouded by uncertainty and internal tension.
Stay tuned. This situation is far from over.
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