The Green Bay Packers acquired linebacker Zaire Franklin from the Indianapolis Colts in March, trading defensive lineman Colby Wooden in exchange. The deal allowed Green Bay to address a significant roster need while pairing Franklin, a former Pro Bowl selection, with existing linebacker Edgerrin Cooper. Franklin also reunited with Packers defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon, under whom he had previously worked.
Indianapolis released Wooden on Sunday during final roster cuts, marking a dramatic reversal just months after acquiring him. The former fourth-round pick had recorded 50 tackles across 17 games in 2025, including 16 starts. Industry observers quickly labeled the move as one of the day’s most surprising decisions, with some declaring the transaction a clear victory for Green Bay before the season even began.
Analysts questioned the Colts’ reasoning for parting with Franklin only to release the compensation they received. Wooden could potentially rejoin Indianapolis on the practice squad or be claimed by another NFL franchise, which would further diminish Indianapolis’s standing in the deal. Franklin, who underperformed in 2025, now has an opportunity to bounce back in Green Bay, potentially making the trade look even worse for the Colts if he performs well during the upcoming season.
Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
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