Zaire Franklin

Career StatsA-

Year	Team	GP	Tkl	Sacks	INT
Career		132	738	10.0	3
2025		17	125	2.0	0
2024		17	173	3.5	2
2023		16

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

The Packers landed a fair deal in signing Zaire Franklin to a $9.0M AAV contract, earning a C CVI that reflects solid value for a serviceable starter at linebacker. Franklin's production tier aligns appropriately with his salary bracket — he's not going to be mistaken for an elite playmaker, but he provides the kind of steady, reliable presence that championship defenses are built around. At his current career stage, this two-year commitment hits the sweet spot of securing proven production without handcuffing the franchise long-term. The modest $3.8M in guaranteed money keeps Green Bay's downside risk manageable while the $18.0M total investment suggests they view Franklin as a legitimate piece of their defensive puzzle. This signing exemplifies smart roster construction — paying market rate for a player who won't wow you on highlight reels but will consistently handle his assignments and contribute to winning football, giving the Packers flexibility to allocate premium dollars elsewhere while maintaining a competent linebacker room.

Performance Analysis

Zaire Franklin grades as a Pro Bowl-caliber among NFL linebackers — one of the best player at the position. His strongest area is tackles for loss at 0.71 (well above the NFL average of 0.40), ranking as elite for the position. Sack production, at 0.12 compared to an NFL average of 0.23, is where he falls short relative to the position. His tackle volume indicates a run-stuffing, every-down role with limited pass-rush production. With 132 career games, there is a large sample size backing this grade.

Fan Sentiment

Green Bay lands a proven All-Pro linebacker in a smart positional upgrade. Multiple outlets covered the deal, highlighting Franklin's All-Pro pedigree and leadership value. Franklin was named All-Pro in 2023, signaling Green Bay is serious about defensive improvement. Packers fans are excited, questioning only what giving up Colby Wooden means long-term. Franklin should immediately start and stabilize Green Bay's linebacker corps in 2025.