Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle DeForest Buckner has been cleared to practice after undergoing neck surgery. Buckner, a three-time Pro Bowl selection, was sidelined in November due to the injury and missed all offseason workouts.

He passed his physical on Monday and is expected to participate in practice starting Wednesday. Buckner will follow a ramp-up period with the aim of being fully ready for opening day. "I'm excited to get back on the field," Buckner stated. "Everybody has a plan on me for getting back on the field and I'm just excited to get back out there with the guys."

The recovery process was challenging, with doctors initially advising him not to lift more than 10 pounds. "It was frustrating, but I just kept my faith and kept working and trusting the doctors and my trainers," he said. "There was a lot of teamwork involved with the whole operation and recovery."