Packers Dominate Zaire with 32-Point Blowout!
Zaire Franklin got an extra $2 million, pretty much out of the kindness of the Packers’ heart.
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - DECEMBER 14: Zaire Franklin #44 of the Indianapolis Colts reacts against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field on December 14, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images) | Getty Images Since the Green Bay Packers traded for their new projected starting Mike linebacker Zaire Franklin, he had no remaining guarantees left on his deal. In theory, he could have been a very flexible piece for the Packers this summer, as they could have chosen to move off him, via a release or trade, before his 2026 salary was guaranteed in Week 1, as a vested veteran of the league.
Instead, the Packers have already touched Franklin’s contract, giving him some extra money and guarantees. Presumably, this was either a do-right decision or to avoid a potential holdout situation, since the move does not benefit Green Bay financially or cap-wise in any way. Ultimately, the Packers gave Franklin a $2 million raise in 2026 and guaranteed $3.
75 million of the total money due for him (in the form of a signing bonus that he didn’t previously have) while keeping his 2027 cash flow flat. Moving forward, Franklin will have a $7. 1 million cap hit in 2026, but now the team would only save $3.
38 million on the cap if they moved on from Franklin before Week 1, compared to the $7 million that was an option prior. In 2027, he will carry a $10. 9 million cap hit.