There has been no shortage of talk about the Pro Bowl snub that befell Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle DeForest Buckner, but there might be a more prestigious award coming his way.
While the Pro Bowl rosters were announced with two games remaining in the regular season, the All-Pro selections won’t be announced until the season hs ended.
Buckner, for some reason, didn’t make the Pro Bowl. Colts defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus told reporters Tuesday that he believes an All-Pro selection should be on the way for Buckner.
“I’ve had guys in the past not make it and then I’ve also had guys not make the – like Darius (Leonard). I had another linebacker at a previous stop that didn’t make the Pro Bowl but made the All-Pro team which is voted on by y’all, the media and guys that are selected to get the vote, to vote on the All-Pro team,” Eberflus said. “That’s more of a prestigious honor and I certainly think he’ll probably get that I would imagine because he is one of the best defensive linemen in football. I’m looking forward to that, and if he doesn’t get it, he doesn’t get it but I think he’s certainly worthy of that.”
Buckner has certainly planted his flag as one of the best interior defenders in the NFL. He’s second in sacks (7.5) and quarterback hits (24) while he sits eighth in pressures, per Pro Football Focus.
It is considered a higher honor to be selected to the All-Pro team. Its less of a popularity contest, which is what the Pro Bowl has become in recent seasons.
Regardless of whether he gets the nod, Buckner has been incredible for the Colts. His presence alone has helped Indy field an elite defense and one capable of thriving in the playoffs.
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