The Indianapolis Colts’ MIKE linebacker Zaire Franklin had a great 2024 season, leading the league in tackles, posting career highs in sacks, interceptions, and forced fumbles, and tying his personal best in pass deflections. He recorded 173 tackles, 11 TFLs, 3.5 sacks, two interceptions, six pass deflections, and five forced fumbles in 17 starts. Franklin’s efforts earned him his first Pro Bowl selection and Second-Team All-Pro honors.
The Indianapolis Colts’ LB battled an injury
Zaire Franklin suffered an ankle injury at some point during the 2024 season. However, the injury did not prevent the Pro Bowl tackling machine from missing any time, as he toughed it out and managed to play every defensive snap. To address the issue, Franklin recently underwent a minor ankle procedure, leaving his availability for spring workouts in question.
The Indianapolis Colts’ tackling machine will miss an extended period
During Friday’s press conference, via Jake Arthur of Sports Illustrated, HC Shane Steichen gave an update on Zaire Franklin’s recent ankle procedure. Steichen told the media that Franklin is expected to miss organized team activities and mandatory minicamp, but expects him to be ready for the start of training camp, which begins in late July.
“Yeah, he’s got an ankle deal. Got it cleaned up,” Steichen said of Franklin’s injury, via Jake Arthur. “So, it’ll take some time. Hopefully, he will be back by training camp.”
He isn’t the only injured LB
Jaylon Carlies battled a shoulder injury and suffered a broken fibula, causing him to miss seven games during his rookie year. During late April, Carlies underwent shoulder surgery. He is expected to miss spring workouts, including OTAs and mandatory minicamp, but he should also be ready for the start of training camp.
Here’s a look at their other LBs
- Segun Olubi
- Cameron McGrone
- Joe Bachie
- Hunter Wohler
- Austin Ajiake
- Liam Anderson
- Solomon DeShields
- Jacob Phillips
Segun Olubi, Cameron McGrone, and Joe Bachie are the three leading candidates to replace their top two linebackers until the start of training camp. These three are also in contention for the LB3 position.
