The Green Bay Packers have a new starting linebacker before free agency has even begun. On Saturday, the Packers agreed to a trade for Indianapolis Colts linebacker Zaire Franklin, sending defensive tackle Colby Wooden back in return. The deal won’t be finalized until after the start of the new league year.
Franklin is an eight-year veteran who was originally drafted in the seventh round of the 2018 NFL Draft. He eventually developed into an impactful starter, making the Pro Bowl in 2024 after leading the league with 173 total tackles to go along with six pass defenses, five forced fumbles, 3.5 sacks, and two interceptions.
Last season, however, was considered a regression year for Franklin as all of his numbers dipped, notably his overall defensive grade at Pro Football Focus, which fell to a career-low 38.4. This ranked dead last out of the 39 linebackers who played at least 800 defensive snaps in 2025.
Clearly, the Packers believe Franklin, who will turn 30 in July, has some good football left in him. With Quay Walker expected to have a strong market once he hits free agency next week, it’s safe to say that Franklin will be the guy manning Jonathan Gannon’s base and nickel defense alongside Edgerrin Cooper next season. Gannon served as the Colts’ defensive backs coach from 2018 to 2020, so the two do have some history.
Obviously, statistics and PFF grades can tell us a little bit about the type of player Green Bay is getting in Franklin. But what is most revealing is the game film. To get a better idea about what to expect from Franklin, we’re going to take a look at some of his clips from Week 12 against the Detroit Lions in 2024.
Let’s begin.
Franklin (6-0, 239, 4.60 forty) may not be as big or fast as Walker (6-4, 241, 4.52 forty), but he does possess the instincts to quickly diagnose plays and put himself in position to make good things happen. Here, he is quick to trigger on a handoff to David Montgomery. We see Franklin do a good job using his bend and elusiveness to dip under a block from an offensive guard to stop Montgomery at the line of scrimmage. This is an example of excellent play recognition and his ability to evade a block to make the tackle.
Right away, Franklin appears to be very technically sound as a run defender. He has a good vision and a good understanding of leverage to beat blockers to the spot. On this play, the Lions called duo, handing it off to Jahmyr Gibbs. Again, Franklin is quick to read and react, moving laterally and then vertically into the open lane Gibbs wants to attack. He beats the stalk blocker to the point of attack and, because of that, makes the stop for no-gain.
One thing I notice about Franklin’s pass coverage is his movement and awareness. He plays under control and also showcases good vision, just like he does in run defender. Here, Franklin’s initial step is back, but once he sees that the running back is also a potential receiver, he moves down to cover him. With no one to throw to, the quarterback tries to scramble, but Franklin has eyes on him the whole way, breaking off his coverage responsibility at the perfect time for a sack.
I’ve got no concerns with Franklin’s play speed and range. He reads this end-around to Jameson Williams the whole way, showing good leverage and closing speed. Notice Franklin’s balance and how he took an effective angle to prevent a cutback. Williams manages only a minimal gain thanks to Franklin’s tracking ability.
Conclusion
The Packers are hoping Franklin can return to his 2024 form when he was a true sideline-to-sideline menace.
For starters, PFF grades really don’t do Franklin justice because they lack context. After watching some of his tape, you can’t question his effort and athleticism. Green Bay isn’t losing much in the production or athleticism department, going from Walker to Franklin, who has used his unique skillset to rack up at least 125 total tackles in each of the past four seasons.
Also, I think Franklin could be a solid complement to Cooper, assuming Cooper will handle the tougher responsibilities in pass coverage. Franklin will be an impactful run defender for the Packers next season, using his vision, processing, and play speed to rack up tackles. However, there are legitimate reasons to question whether the best years are behind a player entering his 30s.
Hopefully, Franklin can get back to playing at a high level for the two years left on his contract and bolster the playmaking the Packers were missing with Walker.
This article originally appeared on Packers Wire: Packers film room: New LB Zaire Franklin’s strengths and what to expect in 2026
Reporting by Brandon Carwile, Packers Wire / Packers Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
