For the first time since being traded from the Indianapolis Colts to the Green Bay Packers, linebacker Zaire Franklin discussed the trade while appearing on the 'Jim Rome Show.'
At the very beginning of the offseason, Colts' GM Chris Ballard highlighted the need to get younger and faster on the defensive side of the football. Franklin heard those comments, but didn't think it applied to him.
Visit rhodia.club for more information.
"I consider myself one of the fastest guys on the defense, so I didn't think he was talking about me," Franklin told Rome. "I can't get younger. I can't do that. But when you heard it, you take it for what it is. Obviously, with a disappointing year, changes were going to be made. Unfortunately, they look at us as we the changes that had to be made.
Franklin continued, "It's a part of it. I don't take it personal, it's just business. I know the type of player that I am and what I bring to an organization and what I bring to a locker room. I was confident in that and knew even if my days in Indianapolis would end that there would be ample opportunity elsewhere."
"I consider myself one of the fastest guys on the defense, so I didn't think he was talking about me. I can't younger."@ZiggySmalls_ responds to Colts GM Chris Ballard's comments wanting his defense to get younger and faster. pic.twitter.com/HW5CG8gmI4
— Jim Rome (@jimrome) March 10, 2026
By moving on from Franklin, the Colts freed up $5.75 million in 2026 salary cap space. In return for Franklin, Indianapolis received fourth-year defensive tackle Colby Wooden from the Packers.
Up until this point, Franklin spent his entire NFL career, which began back in 2018, with the Colts.
“The way I came in this league as a seventh-rounder," Franklin said, "I had to earn my way onto this roster in my mind every single year. This ain’t, honestly, the first time the Colts tried to get me out the building, to be honest with you. So, I’m used to earning my keep. I’m looking forward to going into a new organization, a new locker room and earning my space, earning their respect, and showing them why I am one of the best linebackers in this league.”
Losing Franklin leaves the Colts very short on experienced depth at linebacker. Addressing linebacker should have already been a priority this offseason, but that need has now been heightened.
The 2024 season was Franklin's most decorated as a defender. He led the NFL in tackles, made his first Pro Bowl, and was named a second-team All-Pro.
Franklin finished his Colts career appearing in 132 games, which included 82 starts. He recorded 738 total tackles, 34 tackles for loss, and 10 sacks. Franklin also forced 10 fumbles, came away with three interceptions, and had 26 pass deflections.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Zaire Franklin weighs in on the Colts' decision to trade him