Indianapolis Colts’ linebacker Zaire Franklin will not be ready for the start of training camp as he recovers from offseason ankle surgery.
Editor’s note: GM Chris Ballard spoke later in the day and said that Franklin won’t go on the PUP list and shouldn’t be out long, according to Kevin Bowen.
When speaking with reporters on Tuesday, Franklin said that he wasn’t going to put a timetable on getting healthy, but said that he has been running and is pleased with his progress, according to The Athletic’s James Boyd.
“This is a marathon,” Franklin told the Indy Star’s Nate Atkins.
Franklin would have the ankle procedure back in early May.
Franklin is coming off his most productive season in 2024, which included leading the NFL in tackles, making his first Pro Bowl, along with being named a second-team All-Pro.
He also set a career high with 15 quarterback pressures, four sacks, and two interceptions.
This offseason, the Colts have been implementing a new defensive scheme under Lou Anarumo, one that is more aggressive and disguise-heavy.
In addition to Franklin being out for OTAs and minicamp, so was Jaylon Carlies, who had offseason shoulder surgery. At this time, we do not know if he will be available for the start of training camp.
The Colts’ linebacker room overall is inexperienced, and that depth will be tested early on in training camp while Franklin is sidelined.
“They’ve been doing as much as they can within the rules in terms of their injuries and stuff. But extra meetings with coach Bettcher and just staying ahead of it,” Lou Anarumo said of Franklin and Carlies. “Ultimately, they play linebacker, they gotta get down in there and get used to playing football at some point. Hopefully that’s sooner than later. But mentally they’re trying to stay with it as best they can.”
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Indianapolis Colts LB Zaire Franklin unavailable for start of training camp
Reporting by Paul Bretl, Colts Wire / Colts Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
