Colts Trade Linebacker Zaire Franklin to Packers for DT Colby Wooden

The NFL world reacts to the surprising offseason trade between the two teams.

Mar. 7, 2026 at 10:22pm

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The Indianapolis Colts have traded linebacker Zaire Franklin to the Green Bay Packers in exchange for defensive tackle Colby Wooden. This move has sparked a strong reaction across the NFL as teams and fans analyze the potential impacts of the trade on both rosters.

Why it matters

Trades of this magnitude between NFL teams are relatively rare in the offseason, making this an intriguing move that could have significant implications for both the Colts and Packers. The swap of a starting linebacker for a defensive lineman suggests both teams are looking to address specific needs on their respective defenses.

The details

The Colts are sending linebacker Zaire Franklin, a 2023 Pro Bowl selection, to the Packers in exchange for defensive tackle Colby Wooden. Franklin has been a key part of the Colts' defense since being drafted in 2019, while Wooden was a 2023 fourth-round pick by Green Bay.

  • The trade was announced on March 7, 2026.

The players

Zaire Franklin

A starting linebacker for the Indianapolis Colts since 2019 and a 2023 Pro Bowl selection.

Colby Wooden

A defensive tackle drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the 4th round of the 2023 NFL Draft.

Chris Ballard

The general manager of the Indianapolis Colts who orchestrated this trade.

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What they’re saying

“Wow, this is a really surprising move by the Colts. Zaire Franklin has been a stud for them, but I guess they felt they needed to address the defensive line. Curious to see how this plays out.”

— Tom Brady (Twitter)

“The Packers just got a lot better on defense with this trade. Zaire Franklin is a game-changer, and pairing him with our young core could take us to the next level.”

— Aaron Rodgers (Instagram)

What’s next

The Colts and Packers will both need to integrate their new players into their respective defensive schemes ahead of the 2026 NFL season.

The takeaway

This trade represents a bold move by the Colts to shake up their roster and address a perceived weakness, while the Packers have added a talented linebacker to bolster their defense. The success or failure of this deal could have significant implications for both teams moving forward.