Pro Bowl linebacker Zaire Franklin will be starting a new chapter in his NFL career, as the Indianapolis Colts have traded him to the Green Bay Packers.
In return, the Packers sent defensive tackle Colby Wooden to the Colts.
Franklin could just be what Green Bay needs to give its defense a jolt amid the injury of star pass rusher and defensive end Micah Parsons, who suffered a torn ACL late in the 2025 NFL regular season.
The 29-year-old Franklin has never suited up for a non-Colts team so far in his NFL career, but there will be a change in 2026, with the former Syracuse Orange star headed to Green Bay.
Franklin shares a message for the Colts after his trade to the Packers
Before he officially signs with the Packers, Franklin shared a heartfelt message for “Colts Nation.”
Here’s Franklin’s message that he posted on X, formerly Twitter:
COLTS NATION, 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!
Just understand where I’m from and know that my whole life has been about being the underdog and sometimes (RARELY) my bark is bigger than my bite. Just know whenever I was at lowest it was always a fan my at the store, food spot or an event who’s picture or kind words of support from Far East to Germany that lifted my spirit when I neeeed it! Nap, I hope yall saw that I gave everything I had to this city and I hope I continue to earn your support until the very end..
Sep 15, 2024; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; Green Bay Packers running back Josh Jacobs (8) rushes with the football between Indianapolis Colts cornerback Jaylon Jones (40) and linebacker Zaire Franklin (44) during the fourth quarter at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images
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