Last season, during a rough 4-12-1 campaign for the Indianapolis Colts, one of the bright spots was the consistent performance of linebacker Zaire Franklin.
He would go on to set the all-time franchise record for tackles in a season with 167. This record was held previously by former Colts linebacker Shaquille Leonard (163).
Fast-forward to Week 17 of the 2023 season and the Colts would be in a must-win contest against the Las Vegas Raiders. Indianapolis would get the job done and win 23-20, but Franklin’s 10 tackles against the Raiders would give him 170 on the season, breaking the franchise single-season tackle record he previously set last year.
Not only has Franklin reset his own Colts record, but his 170 tackles also lead the entire NFL. Through 15 games this year, he’s put together 11 contests with 10+ tackles and is making a massive case to get his first Pro Bowl nomination. There’s also a chance that he could make a first or second-team All-Pro if everything falls in line for him.
Not just a tackling machine, Franklin also plays well in coverage and is a defensive captain who makes plays all over the field. Along with his 170 tackles, Franklin also has six pass deflections, three tackles for loss, two forced fumbles, and 1.5 sacks this season.
These numbers, as well as the Colts’ 9-7 record and potential to make the playoffs with a win against the Houston Texans, are all things that can finally get Franklin to Pro Bowl and possibly All-Pro honors at the conclusion of the season.
Outlook
Franklin has been with the Colts for all six years of his short NFL career. Through these seasons, he has truly made sacrifices and taken his lumps, starting off as strictly a special teams ace, then captain, and now a bonafide defensive leader who puts in seriously efficient work on the field.
Coach Shane Steichen will need Franklin to perhaps play his best game of the year against the Texans on Saturday night. If the Colts can get the job done and defeat DeMeco Ryans and his C.J. Stroud-led squad, they’re in the playoffs and will trounce all preseason expectations.
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