33 Facts About DeForest Buckner

Early Life and Background

DeForest Buckner's journey to NFL stardom began long before he donned a professional jersey. His early years laid the foundation for his future success.

1. Born on March 17, 1994, in Waianae, Hawaii, Buckner grew up in a close-knit community.
2. His father, George Buckner, was a former basketball player, which influenced DeForest's athletic pursuits.
3. Buckner attended Punahou School in Honolulu, the same school that former President Barack Obama attended.
4. In high school, he excelled in both football and basketball, showcasing his versatility as an athlete.

College Career at Oregon

Buckner's talent shone brightly during his college years at the University of Oregon, where he became a standout player.

5. Buckner played for the Oregon Ducks from 2012 to 2015, earning a reputation as a dominant defensive lineman.
6. In his junior year, he recorded 81 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, and 4 sacks, earning him All-Pac-12 honors.
7. As a senior, he was named the Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year and received first-team All-American honors.
8. Buckner finished his college career with 232 tackles, 36 tackles for loss, and 18 sacks.

NFL Draft and Early Professional Career

Buckner's transition to the NFL was marked by significant milestones and achievements.

9. The San Francisco 49ers selected Buckner with the seventh overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft.
10. He signed a four-year contract worth $18.19 million, including a $11.43 million signing bonus.
11. In his rookie season, Buckner started all 16 games and recorded 73 tackles, 6 sacks, and 2 fumble recoveries.
12. Buckner was named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 2016, highlighting his immediate impact.

Rise to Stardom with the 49ers

Buckner's time with the 49ers saw him develop into one of the league's premier defensive players.

13. In 2018, Buckner recorded a career-high 12 sacks, earning his first Pro Bowl selection.
14. He played a crucial role in the 49ers' defense, helping the team reach Super Bowl LIV in the 2019 season.
15. Buckner was named a second-team All-Pro in 2019, solidifying his status as an elite defensive lineman.
16. During his four seasons with the 49ers, he amassed 263 tackles, 28.5 sacks, and 7 fumble recoveries.

Trade to the Indianapolis Colts

In 2020, Buckner's career took a new turn with a trade to the Indianapolis Colts.

17. The 49ers traded Buckner to the Colts in exchange for the 13th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft.
18. Buckner signed a four-year, $84 million contract extension with the Colts, making him one of the highest-paid defensive players in the league.
19. In his first season with the Colts, he recorded 58 tackles, 9.5 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles.
20. Buckner was named a first-team All-Pro in 2020, recognizing his outstanding performance.

Off the Field

Beyond his on-field achievements, Buckner is known for his contributions off the field.

21. Buckner is actively involved in community service, participating in various charitable events and initiatives.
22. He and his wife, Ashlyn, have a son named Dominic, born in 2018.
23. Buckner has a passion for fashion and often shares his stylish outfits on social media.
24. He is also an avid gamer, frequently streaming his gameplay on platforms like Twitch.

Personal Interests and Hobbies

Buckner's life isn't all about football; he has a range of interests that keep him busy during his downtime.

25. Buckner enjoys playing basketball, a sport he excelled in during high school.
26. He is a fan of the Marvel Cinematic Universe and often watches the latest superhero movies.
27. Buckner loves to travel and explore new places with his family during the offseason.
28. He has a keen interest in cooking and often experiments with new recipes in the kitchen.

Achievements and Honors

Throughout his career, Buckner has received numerous accolades and recognition for his exceptional play.

29. Buckner was named to the NFL Top 100 Players list multiple times, reflecting his peers' respect.
30. He received the Polynesian Pro Football Player of the Year award in 2018.
31. Buckner was selected to the Pro Bowl in 2018 and 2020, highlighting his consistent performance.
32. He was named the AFC Defensive Player of the Week in Week 12 of the 2020 season.

Future Prospects

Buckner's career continues to flourish, and fans eagerly anticipate what lies ahead for this talented player.

33. With his combination of size, strength, and skill, Buckner remains a key player for the Colts' defense and a force to be reckoned with in the NFL.

DeForest Buckner: A Remarkable Journey

DeForest Buckner's story is one of grit, talent, and perseverance. From his early days in Hawaii to becoming a standout in the NFL, he's shown what hard work can achieve. His impressive stats, leadership on the field, and commitment to community service make him a player worth watching. Buckner's journey isn't just about football; it's about inspiring others to chase their dreams no matter the obstacles. Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to the sport, Buckner's career offers plenty of moments to admire. Keep an eye on this defensive powerhouse as he continues to make waves in the NFL. His story is far from over, and there's no doubt he'll keep surprising us with his skills and dedication. Stay tuned for more incredible feats from DeForest Buckner.