Story by
Is Zaire Franklin Ready for Thursday? Packers Weigh Return Against Leg Fracture
- Story by
- Is Zaire Franklin Ready for Thursday? Packers Weigh Return Against Leg Fracture
Green Bay Packers linebacker Zaire Franklin will avoid injured reserve after suffering a hairline fracture in his leg, according to NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport. The decision leaves the door open for Franklin to return without missing the minimum four games required for players placed on injured reserve.
Franklin sustained the injury during practice last week after accidentally getting kicked in the leg. He subsequently missed Sunday's 20-17 loss to the Detroit Lions, with the Packers initially listing him with a shin injury.
Advertisement
Rapoport reported Monday that Green Bay expects Franklin to miss minimal time. However, the team has not established a confirmed return date, and his availability for Thursday night's matchup against the Carolina Panthers remains uncertain.
The decision comes at a difficult point in the Packers' season. Green Bay dropped to 4-3 after its loss to Detroit and sits fourth in the NFC North behind the Minnesota Vikings (6-0), Chicago Bears (5-2) and Lions (4-2). The Packers are also seventh in the NFC standings, leaving them in the final wild-card position as Week 8 approaches.
Advertisement
Franklin has been an important addition to Green Bay's defense since arriving from the Indianapolis Colts in an offseason trade. The veteran linebacker has recorded 41 tackles, two tackles for loss, one forced fumble and one pass breakup through six games this season.
Green Bay Packers linebacker Zaire Franklin (44) Mike Dinovo-Imagn Images
His absence also adds pressure to a linebacker group already dealing with injuries. Edgerrin Cooper suffered a season-ending Achilles injury earlier this season, leaving Isaiah McDuffie and Ty'Ron Hopper among the options available to help fill the gap. Both could continue to handle increased responsibilities while Franklin recovers.
Advertisement
The Packers had previously expressed optimism about Franklin's injury. Head coach Matt LaFleur said Friday that he did not expect the issue to be long-term after Franklin suffered a blow to the shin during practice.
Green Bay now faces a short turnaround before hosting Carolina on Thursday night. Avoiding injured reserve gives Franklin a chance to return sooner than that designation would allow, but the Packers will need to assess his recovery before determining when he can play again.
Green Bay Packers Essentials
Advertisement
More on the Green Bay Packers
This story was originally published by Athlon on Oct 26, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
