INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — The Indianapolis Colts will be getting some help in the trenches for Monday night’s matchup against the San Francisco 49ers. Colts head coach Shane Steichen announced Saturday that veteran defensive lineman DeForest Buckner will play Monday. This will be Buckner’s first game back since being placed on injured reserve with a neck injury. Buckner traveled to Panama to undergo a stem cell treatment for the injury. His return comes at just the right time as the Colts fight to stay in the playoff conversation with just three games left in the regular season. Buckner said Friday that the decision to come back before the season’s over wasn’t one he took lightly given the extent of the injury. “It’s one of those injuries that’s very serious,” Buckner said. “It’s definitely a heavy burden on myself on making the decision. Obviously, I know what’s at stake, but also I know what’s at stake for me long term in my life, you know what I’m saying. You got things you got to weigh.” Buckner was a full participant in practice on Thursday and Friday this week. While the front of the Colts defense gets some much-needed help, Lou Anarumo’s secondary will still be short-handed against the Niners. Cornerback Sauce Gardner was ruled out as he continues to deal with a calf injury. Steichen also ruled out receiver Anthony Gould, who will miss his second straight game with a foot injury. The Colts face off against the Niners Monday night at 8:30 p.m. Eastern in Lucas Oil Stadium. Tune in to Countdown to Kickoff Sunday from 11 a.m. to noon as the WISH-TV sports team breaks down all the storylines ahead of the pivotal matchup. Then, remember to Switch to WISH immediately following the game for the live Post Game Show. ...read more read less