Indianapolis Colts LB Zaire Franklin making training camp debut
Indianapolis Colts' linebacker Zaire Franklin was on the field and warming up prior to Saturday's training camp practice.
Franklin has yet to practice during training camp up to this point as he continued to recover from offseason ankle surgery.
Earlier in the week, Shane Steichen expressed his optimism that Franklin would be able to return fairly soon. It appears that time has now come.
Now, there may still be a ramp-up period for Franklin. Just because he's warming up may not mean that he goes through team drills today. We will have to wait and see what the practice plan is.
Franklin is coming off a career year in which he led the NFL in tackles, while also setting career highs in sacks and interceptions. He made his first Pro Bowl and was named a second-team All-Pro as well.
Being paired with Jaylon Carlies, who brings a coverage element to the position as a former safety, and operating in Lou Anarumo's defensive back-heavy scheme, should all benefit Franklin, who could, as a result, see added opportunities near the line of scrimmage this season, which is where he's at his best.
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