We continue our training camp previews by looking at the Indianapolis Colts’ linebacker corps and one of its youngest contributors on special teams.
Name: Zaire Franklin
Position: LB
Height: 6-foot-0
Weight: 235
Age: 23
Year Drafted: 2018 (seventh round)
Background
The Syracuse product certainly faced his share of uphill challenges last season. Not only was Franklin a seventh-round pick, who plays a position that witnessed a lot of competition throughout training camp, but he would have to earn every single piece of playing time if called upon.
But when it was all said and done, Franklin had a better season than expected. First of all, the former rookie linebacker actually played in all 16 games and produced 29 total tackles, including 11 of them against the Patriots. Secondly, Franklin showed the ability to play the SAM spot at linebacker. And lastly, he earned enough trust by the Colts’ training camp to be given opportunities to play.
2019 Outlook
Although the Colts added more bodies to their linebacker position this past off-season, Franklin should have a fair chance to compete. So far, during his young career with the Colts, Franklin has made a good impression on everybody that’s seen him, whether it’s on or off the field.
At this point, it’s really a matter of the Syracuse product being consistent and impactful during the early stages of training camp. Especially as the team looks for additional depth at the SAM and WILL linebacker spots.
Though Franklin’s contributions might yet again come on special teams, his leadership qualities and intelligence give him a shot to compete for a roster spot.
Bottom Line
Franklin could be one of the few seventh-round picks that makes it to the next level and sticks around, but there are some big questions to answer in the next couple of weeks. Whenever there’s a chance to show off his athleticism and potential, Franklin has to take advantage of every opportunity and quickly show why he should be apart of this team.
