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Colts Explore Trading LB Zaire Franklin to Get Under Salary Cap

The talks follow a transition tag on Daniel Jones that pushed Indianapolis about $4.7 million over the limit.

Overview

  • ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports the Colts are speaking with teams about moving the veteran linebacker, with no deal announced yet.
  • A pre–June 1 trade is estimated to free roughly $5.75 million in 2026 cap space and leave about $2.5 million in dead money.
  • Franklin is entering Year 2 of a three-year, $31.26 million extension and carries an estimated $8.25 million 2026 cap hit.
  • Potential suitors mentioned across reports include the Cowboys, Giants, Commanders, Jets, Bills, Raiders and Broncos.
  • GM Chris Ballard praised Franklin but was noncommittal on his future as the team faces a March 11 deadline to be cap compliant.