Stewart steps into leadership role after Colts send Buckner to 49ers

Grover Stewart will now shoulder the primary voice of the Indianapolis Colts defensive line. The team traded DeForest Buckner to the San Francisco 49ers on Thursday in exchange for a 2027 fourth-round pick. Stewart and Buckner spent seven seasons playing together in Indianapolis, a partnership that Stewart described as a lifetime bond.

Buckner served as a team captain in every season he played for the Colts. He was one of the most vocal leaders on the defense. Stewart acknowledged that losing such a prominent figure takes a toll, but he stated that he will now lead the younger players and the locker room. Stewart said, "It really hurt me. Seeing my guy going back home and stuff like that. It hurt me. It’s a lifetime bond, man. Brother, best friend, the dynamic duo. Like, it’s just a bond you can’t never break, man."

The trade is part of a wider organizational reset for the Colts. General Manager Chris Ballard was fired, and longtime offensive guard Quenton Nelson was traded to Seattle. Stewart is in the final year of a three-year, $39 million contract he signed in March 2024. He selected the team in the fourth round of the 2017 NFL Draft when he was 23 years old.

Stewart said he stays focused amid the trade rumors by sticking to his job. He stated, "My goal is don’t flinch, man. I still got a job to do, so I’m going to stick to doing my job." He noted that he will lead the team and keep doing his work despite the changes.

Stewart is 33 years old. He was asked whether he hopes to remain in Indianapolis after the trade deadline passes. He replied, "When the season’s over, that’s when I’ll deal with that."

If the Colts decide to move Stewart, they must complete the transaction by 4 p.m. on Tuesday, November 10. The 2-5 Colts will travel to Jacksonville to face the 4-2 Jaguars on Sunday, November 1.