Indianapolis Colts fans' worst nightmare just might become a reality in Week 3

The Indianapolis Colts defensive struggles are likely going to get worse with the team placing star defensive tackle DeForest Buckner on the injury reserve .

This has led fans to question what the teams plan will be to replace Buckner's vital role. Defensive coordinator Gus Bradley's recent positive review about Taven Bryan, could be leading to a nightmare of Colts fans becoming their reality.

Gus Bradley's thoughts on Taven Bryan

Bradley was asked what about Bryan's game would make him comfortable to start him in the open starting job Buckner's injury creates. And here is what the Colts DC had to say:

"Obviously, if I said this, this is probably things that you know about Taven (Bryan). He is tough minded, mentally tough, strains (and) does everything right. You know exactly where he's going to be and what you can count on from him every day. And that part right now, that's what you need – the consistency factor of knowing exactly what you're going to get out of his play. So, we can count on that. He's a swing guy. He can play nose, he can play three. So, he gives us flexibility, and he plays both of them at a consistent level."

- Gus Bradley's thoughts on Taven Bryan

When Bryan is on the field, the opposing teams see a big red target that reads "run the ball here." It has been a big contributor to the team allowing over 200 rushing yards in both of their first two games of the 2024 season, and I don't think its a coincidence that both have resulted in a loss.

Now with Buckner set to miss at least the next four weeks, the Colts could be looking to increase Bryan's snap count. Which I and many others believe would be a massive mistake. The Colts should instead be looking to utilize the positional flexibility that multiple edge rushers have on their roster. I think the perfect player to utilize would be Dayo Odeyingbo. But we will have to wait and see if the Colts agree with me or if a larger dose of Taven Bryan is on the menu for the Chicago Bears to exploit in Week 3.

Related: Colts WR Josh Downs gives promising update on his injury status ahead of their Week 3 matchup

Related: How to watch, stream, or listen to the Indianapolis Colts vs. Chicago Bears Week 3 matchup