What happened: Albert Breer identified the 32-year-old defensive tackle as the next obvious veteran to move as Indianapolis actively shops him on the trade market. The projection comes shortly after the franchise dealt six-time All-Pro guard Quenton Nelson to the Seattle Seahawks for a 2027 third-round pick and a 2028 fifth-round selection.

Why it matters: While Buckner remains an effective interior defender on a manageable salary, playing in the final year of his contract gives an acquiring contender only a rental unless it negotiates an extension. Sitting at 2-5 following the dismissal of general manager Chris Ballard, Indianapolis has pivoted toward converting veteran contracts into future draft assets.

What to watch: Interested contenders will weigh offers for Buckner as Indianapolis continues trade discussions ahead of its Week 9 matchup against Dallas.