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NFL Trade Deadline Grades: Who Won The DeForest Buckner, Quenton Nelson Deals?

The Indianapolis Colts initiated a roster overhaul on Tuesday, trading defensive tackle DeForest Buckner to the San Francisco 49ers for a 2027 fourth-round draft pick. Buckner, who was originally drafted by San Francisco as the seventh overall selection in 2016, returns to the 49ers to bolster a pass rush that has recorded 15 sacks this season and 20 last year.

He joins a defensive line that expects the return of Nick Bosa from a calf injury. In seven games, Buckner has recorded 31 tackles, eight quarterback hits, and four sacks for Indianapolis.

In a separate move, the Colts sent guard Quenton Nelson to the Seattle Seahawks for a 2027 third-round pick and a 2028 fifth-round pick. The Seahawks, led by general manager John Schneider, acquired the eight-time Pro Bowler and six-time All-Pro to protect quarterback Sam Darnold and improve their rushing game.

This trade comes as Indianapolis begins a rebuilding phase following the dismissal of general manager Chris Ballard.

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