The Green Bay Packers have made significant strides in strengthening their defense by adding veteran leadership through linebacker Zaire Franklin and defensive tackle Javon Hargrave. On March 11, 2026, the Packers traded defensive lineman Colby Wooden to the Indianapolis Colts in exchange for Franklin. A ninth-year player out of Syracuse University, Franklin has been a cornerstone of the Colts' defense since 2018. Over 132 games, he recorded 707 tackles, 10 sacks, and 11 forced fumbles. Notably, in 2024, Franklin led the league with 173 tackles and earned second-team All-Pro honors, along with his first Pro Bowl selection. ([packers.com](https://www.packers.com/news/packers-announce-trade-with-colts-march-11-2026?utm_source=openai)) Franklin's leadership is further underscored by his tenure as a six-time team captain from 2020 to 2025. His consistent performance and experience are expected to provide a stabilizing presence in the Packers' linebacker corps. ([packers.com](https://www.packers.com/team/players-roster/zaire-franklin/?utm_source=openai)) In a parallel move, the Packers signed defensive tackle Javon Hargrave to a two-year, $23 million contract on March 13, 2026. Hargrave, a 11th-year player from South Carolina State, has an impressive NFL resume, including stints with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Philadelphia Eagles, San Francisco 49ers, and Minnesota Vikings. Throughout his career, he has accumulated 432 tackles, 49 sacks, and 59 tackles for loss. His accolades include two Pro Bowl selections in 2021 and 2023, and he has started in all 11 postseason games he has participated in, including two Super Bowl appearances. ([packers.com](https://www.packers.com/team/players-roster/javon-hargrave/?utm_source=openai)) Hargrave's addition is anticipated to bolster the Packers' defensive line, providing a formidable presence alongside other key players. His experience and pass-rushing capabilities are expected to enhance the team's ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks. ([wsaw.com](https://www.wsaw.com/2026/03/11/packers-amp-up-defensive-line-with-veteran-tackle-javon-hargrave/?utm_source=openai)) Both Franklin and Hargrave bring a wealth of experience and leadership to the Packers' defense. Their acquisitions reflect the team's commitment to enhancing its defensive unit and positioning itself as a competitive force in the NFL. ## Highlights: - [Past ties led Packers to add Zaire Franklin, Javon Hargrave - ESPN](https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/48428074/nfl-green-bay-packers-zaire-franklin-javon-hargrave?utm_source=openai), Published on Wednesday, April 08 - [Zaire Franklin confident in Packers' trajectory: When you've got a QB and a pass rush, you’ve got a chance](https://www.nfl.com/news/zaire-franklin-confident-in-packers-trajectory-when-you-ve-got-a-qb-and-a-pass-rush-you-ve-got-a-chance/?utm_source=openai), Published on Friday, May 15