The Green Bay Packers’ trade to land linebacker Zaire Franklin from the Colts made sense. With an offense that is an NFC contender and a championship-caliber defense, the Packers are looking to take back the NFC North.
With the trade of Packers defensive tackle Colby Wooden, Green Bay addresses a critical leadership and production void at linebacker.
But Why Does This Trade Make Sense for Green Bay?
First, the trade for Zaire Franklin makes sense given the recent position Packers linebacker Quay Walker is in. With Walker expected to hit free agency next week, Franklin provides an immediate, veteran starter to lead. Walker led the team in tackles for four consecutive seasons. Franklin, on the other hand, led the NFL in tackles in 2024 and can match the production Walker has had.
Sep 21, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Green Bay Packers linebacker Quay Walker (7) tackles Cleveland Browns running back Quinshon Judkins (10) during the first quarter at Huntington Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
The trade for Zaire Franklin also makes sense because he has excellent veteran leadership. Franklin was a multi-year captain while with the Colts. He has only missed one game over the course of his eight-year career. This reliability contrasts with some of the younger depth that is currently in the linebacker room of Green Bay.
It also made sense for Green Bay to trade for Franklin due to the fact that it saves Green Bay money. Franklin has two years remaining on a contract with no more guaranteed money. His cap connects at $7 million in 2026 and $9 million by 2027. This is considered cost-effective for a proven starter compared to the projected $15 million that Walker had.
While Franklin is an elite run defender, he has historically struggled in pass coverage. He has allowed a 103.1 quarterback rating when targeted in 2025. Green Bay’s defensive staff will likely rely on his passing with Edgerrin Cooper to mask out these limitations.
Main Image: Kevin Ng-Imagn Images