For the first time in his career, Zaire Franklin is a Pro Bowler.
The seventh-year linebacker had a standout 2024 season, leading the NFL with 173 tackles to become the first Colts player to do so since linebacker Shaquille Leonard (163 in 2018). Franklin had eight games with 10 or more tackles, bringing his career total to 30 games with double digit tackles, which passed Leonard (27) for most in team history.
2024 marked the third consecutive season Franklin recorded over 160 tackles; he had 167 in 2022 and a franchise record 179 in 2023. With 173 in 2024, Franklin finished with nine more tackles than the player with the second-most tackles (Arizona Cardinals safety Budda Baker).
Franklin also set single-season career highs in sacks (3 ½), interceptions (2) and forced fumbles (5), and had 11 tackles for a loss and three pass break-ups.
"I think every year I've come in trying to expand my game and find ways to impact the game," Franklin said. "I think to a certain extent – obviously, tackling is in my opinion, a measure of hustle and determination and just being around the ball. From Day One, I was told a linebacker's job is to hit the ball.
"That being said, playing with great players and being around all the greatest players – take the ball away and they help affect and change the game. And that's something I've been focusing on. I've been putting a lot of time in."
Thanks to his efforts in 2024, Franklin was also named a Second Team All-Pro for the first time in his career.
"Zaire is a hell of a football player, leader on our football team," head coach Shane Steichen said. "He shows up every week, prepares the right way. Obviously, he makes the plays on Sunday."
