Colts Trade Franklin to Packers, Boost Defense

0:00On March 9th, the Indianapolis Colts traded linebackers Zaire Franklin to the Green Bay Packers for defensive tackle Colby Wooden just days before the NFL's new league year kicked off. Franklin, a 29-year-old veteran and team captain, had been a mainstay on defense after starting as a seventh-round draft pick. Over eight seasons with the Colts, he racked up 738 tackles, including a league-leading 173 and 20. 24 that earned him second team all pro honors. He started 82 games and appeared in 132 total. Franklin shared heartfelt thanks to Colts fans for their support, due highs and lows, calling Indianapolis his home away from home. He also praised General Manager Chris Ballard for giving a kid from North Philly his shot and keeping it real with him. His play dipped in 2025 under the new defensive coordinator, with miss tackles and coverage issues standing out, despite leading the team in stops. Earlier, Ballard hinted at uncertainty about Franklin's long-term role.

1:00This swap gives Franklin a fresh start in Green Bay, while bolstering the Colts defensive line ahead of a big 2026 push.