DeForest Buckner, a defensive lineman with the Indianapolis Colts, is connected to Cincinnati

It’s the season of endless conjecture, what with free agency and the NFL Draft approaching.

Bleacher Report (B/R) analyst David Kenyon came up with a five-trade plan to assemble the next great defense. He traded Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle DeForest Buckner, a member of the Indianapolis Colts, for only a second-round selection.

The Indianapolis Colts don’t really need to move DeForest Buckner since they have an abundance of cap room. He’s spent his four seasons in Indianapolis as a top performer, every time.

But Buckner is about to reach the last year of his deal.

The Colts should consider optimizing a return for the defensive lineman if they are inclined not to extend him. Even in the event of an aggressive 2024 NFL draft, the Cincinnati Bengals could afford to choose Buckner with at least their second-round pick.

For the record, this is a very improbable transaction. But Cincinnati would undoubtedly benefit greatly from this much-needed renovation. David Kenyon regarding B/R

Oh no. How should I begin?

Last season, the Colts and Bengals both had 9-8 records at the end. Joe Burrow was out of the Bengals lineup for almost the whole season. Although he is a better established commodity than quarterback Anthony Richardson of the Colts, who was also out for almost the whole season, why would the Bengals be the buyers and the Colts the sellers before the season began?

Even though Buckner only has one year remaining on his contract, a Pro Bowl defensive lineman in his prime is still worth more than a second-round choice in February unless he insists on making a move before the season begins.

If the Colts are having trouble, this trade may make more sense at the NFL Trade Deadline on Halloween. However, Buckner is a critical addition to the Colts, as they need to improve a defense that ranked 28th in scoring last season.

Kenyon clarified that it’s extremely unlikely in his suggestion. A defensive lineman in the Pro Bowl—why wouldn’t it be a “massive, much-needed upgrade?” Why not tag and trade Chris Jones, a free agent from the Kansas City Chiefs, if he’s aiming high for defensive tackles who suit the bill?

or Aaron Donald?

The Bengals’ chances of obtaining those guys are approximately the same as Buckner’s.

We bring this up since our live podcasts frequently include these kinds of conversations. “Hey, I heard rumors that the Colts are trading DeForest Buckner to the Bengals for a second-round pick.”

No. This is merely general managers speculating over ideas over the off-season water cooler.

Furthermore, it won’t survive past the water cooler.