PFF’s 32 highest-graded pass-rushing DTs, including Colts’ DeForest Buckner

When it comes to PFF’s highest-graded pass rushers from the defensive tackle position, not surprisingly, the Colts’ DeForest Buckner is near the top of that list.

Since joining the Colts in 2020, Buckner has been a disruptive force from the interior, averaging nearly 54 pressures per season with 9-plus sacks, according to PFF. Last season specifically, Buckner’s 52 pressures ranked 14th among his position group and he’d also tie for seventh in pass-rush win rate as well.

Buckner would sign a two-year, $46 million extension earlier this offseason that will keep him in Indianapolis through the 2026 season.

“DeForest has been the epitome of what it means to be a Colt the last four years,” GM Chris Ballard said in a statement released by the team following the extension. “As one of the premier defensive tackles in the league, he is a destructive force on our defensive line. DeForest is one of the pillars of our locker room. His hard work, consistency, and approach to the game are vital to the success of our team.

“We are fortunate to have DeForest and the caliber of man he is representing our organization. I’m excited for him and his family on this much deserved contract extension.”

Along with Buckner, the Colts have Grover Stewart inside. Stewart has established himself as one of the league’s better run defenders but wants to take his game to the next level this season and show he can get after the quarterback. The Colts would also add Raekwon Davis in free agency, who they believe can be a productive pass-rush in Gus Bradley’s defensive scheme.

When it comes to PFF’s grading system, it is far from the be-all-end-all in terms of player evaluation. It is just one tool within the tool belt. However, generally speaking, when a player is performing really well, PFF’s grades reflect that, and the same can be said for when a player is performing not so well.

Below, you will find Buckner’s PFF pass-rush grade from the 2023 season, along with the 31 other highest-graded members of this position group in this category. To be eligible for this list, defensive tackles had to have at least 127 pass-rushing snaps.

Here is a look at PFF’s grading system to provide some context behind the numbers:

90.0+: Elite
80-89.9: High quality
70-79.9: Good
60-69.9: Above average
50-59.9: Average
40-49.9: Below average
39.9 or less: Poor