DeForest Buckner's trade opens a starting role for Colts defensive tackle Adetomiwa Adebawore, who is in the final year of his rookie contract and positioned for a significant payday in free agency.
Adebawore, a fourth-round pick in 2023, spent his first three seasons fighting for playing time despite his elite athleticism. He ran a 4.49-second 40-yard dash at the combine, the fastest ever recorded by a player at his weight (282 pounds), surpassing Aaron Donald's previous mark of 4.68 seconds. Two defensive coaching staffs were reluctant to use him because of his 6-foot-1 frame.
A season-ending neck injury to Buckner last season finally gave Adebawore extended snaps. He recorded four sacks, five tackles for loss, and six quarterback hits in over 500 plays. This season, despite playing only 36% of snaps, he has tied Buckner for the team lead with four sacks and eight quarterback hits.
Head coach Shane Steichen praised his improvement. "He's playing at a high level, and I think he's only going to continue to elevate that level," Steichen said. Defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo noted Adebawore's versatility, saying he can play multiple positions and has become an "explosive guy, really good athlete."
With Buckner gone, Adebawore gets his first extended opportunity as a full-time starter. He sees it as his moment. "Whenever you get an opportunity to play a little bit more, it's your time to go out and make plays," Adebawore said. If he continues producing at his current rate, he will have multiple suitors in free agency next spring.