Colts Linebacker Zaire Franklin Traded to Packers

Franklin thanks Colts fans after 8 seasons with the team

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Indianapolis Colts linebacker Zaire Franklin, who had spent his entire 8-year NFL career with the team, was traded to the Green Bay Packers in exchange for defensive tackle Colby Wooden. Franklin posted a heartfelt message to Colts fans on social media, thanking them for their support over the years.

Why it matters

Franklin had been a key part of the Colts defense for nearly a decade, leading the team in tackles for four straight seasons and making the Pro Bowl in 2024. His departure marks the end of an era for the Colts and their fans, who have grown accustomed to his contributions on the field.

The details

The trade, which cannot be officially completed until later this week, sends Franklin to the Packers in exchange for Wooden. Franklin was drafted by the Colts in the 7th round of the 2018 NFL Draft and has been a consistent presence on their defense, leading the team in tackles in 2024 and finishing with 125 tackles last season.

  • Franklin was drafted by the Colts in the 7th round of the 2018 NFL Draft.
  • Franklin led the Colts in tackles for four straight seasons.
  • Franklin made the Pro Bowl in 2024.
  • Last season, Franklin led the Colts with 125 tackles and 2 sacks.

The players

Zaire Franklin

An 8-year veteran linebacker who has spent his entire NFL career with the Indianapolis Colts, leading the team in tackles for four straight seasons and making the Pro Bowl in 2024.

Colby Wooden

A defensive tackle who is being traded from the Green Bay Packers to the Indianapolis Colts as part of the deal that sends Zaire Franklin to the Packers.

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What they’re saying

“I wanted to write yall a special goodbye because that's how much yall mean to me. Thank you for accepting me and supporting me and my family throughout our time in Indy! I know I haven't always done or said the right things and for that I'm sorry!”

— Zaire Franklin, Colts Linebacker (X)

What’s next

The trade cannot be officially completed until later this week.

The takeaway

Zaire Franklin's departure from the Colts after 8 seasons marks the end of an era for the team and its fans, who have grown accustomed to his leadership and production on the field. His heartfelt message to the Colts faithful underscores the strong bond he developed with the community during his time in Indianapolis.