Colts Linebacker Zaire Franklin Traded to Packers

29-year-old linebacker looks forward to new opportunity after 7 seasons in Indianapolis.

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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Veteran linebacker Zaire Franklin was traded from the Indianapolis Colts to the Green Bay Packers over the weekend. Franklin, who has spent his entire 7-year NFL career with the Colts, expressed excitement about joining the Packers and their championship-caliber team.

Why it matters

The trade marks a significant change for Franklin, who has been a key part of the Colts' defense since being drafted in 2019. His move to the Packers, a perennial playoff contender, could provide him with a chance to compete for a division title and Super Bowl.

The details

The Colts traded the 29-year-old Franklin to the Packers in exchange for young defensive tackle Colby Wooden. Franklin said he will need some time to get used to the Packers' historic green uniforms, but is thankful to be joining an organization with a chance to compete for championships every year.

  • The trade occurred over the weekend of March 9-10, 2026.

The players

Zaire Franklin

A 29-year-old linebacker who has spent his entire 7-year NFL career with the Indianapolis Colts.

Green Bay Packers

A professional football team in the National Football League (NFL) known for their historic green uniforms and consistent success, including multiple Super Bowl championships.

Colby Wooden

A young defensive tackle who was traded from the Green Bay Packers to the Indianapolis Colts as part of the deal involving Zaire Franklin.

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What they’re saying

“I'm thankful I'm going to an organization like Green Bay that has a chance to compete for a divisional title and a championship every year.”

— Zaire Franklin, Linebacker (The Jim Rome Show)

What’s next

The Packers will look to integrate Franklin into their defense as they prepare for the upcoming NFL season, where they will aim to win their division and compete for a Super Bowl championship.

The takeaway

This trade represents an opportunity for veteran linebacker Zaire Franklin to join a championship-caliber organization in the Green Bay Packers, potentially giving him a chance to compete for a Super Bowl title before the end of his career.