Colts' Franklin Future: Cap Space vs Experience

0:00On February 27, Indianapolis Colt General Manager Chris Ballard addressed the future of linebackers a year Franklin at the NFL Combine. Franklin remains under contract through the 2026 season, carrying an $8.25 million salary cab hit next year. Releasing him would free up $5.75 million in cab space. The Colt sit comfortably with cap room for now. That could change soon, with big extensions looming for wide receiver Alec Pierce and quarterback Daniel Jones. The team also bolstered the position by adding EJ Pratt last season. Ballard spoke fondly of Franklin, noting their strong relationship and his solid play. He highlighted how Pratt brought needed toughness to the group. Still, Ballard stressed building a younger, faster defense, especially needing better coverage skills at linebacker. Franklin earned a pro-bowl nod in 2024 and stayed remarkably durable over his career. He shines near the line, stuffing the run and pressuring quarterbacks as a blitzer.

1:01Yet the Colt's lack overall experience there, making a split potentially riskier. With cap flexibility not urgent, the team might hold steady for now. Watch for moves in the coming weeks ahead of the legal tampering window on March 9, as Indianapolis reshapes his front seven.