The King Slayer Zaire Franklin

Indianapolis Colts LB Zaire Franklin isn't some fad that comes and goes, he is here to stay.  The NFL's tackle leader continues to make plays week in and week out. This week was no different as he met Derrick Henry in the hole one one-on-one and swallowed the star RB to force a turnover on […]

Destin Adams NFL News Writer
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Indianapolis Colts linebacker Zaire Franklin (44) tackles Tennessee Titans running back Derrick Henry (22) on a fourth down attempt Sunday, Oct. 8, 2023, during a game against the Tennessee Titans at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
Robert Scheer/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK

Indianapolis Colts LB Zaire Franklin isn't some fad that comes and goes, he is here to stay. 

The NFL's tackle leader continues to make plays week in and week out. This week was no different as he met Derrick Henry in the hole one one-on-one and swallowed the star RB to force a turnover on downs. 

Franklin currently leads the NFL in total tackles (69) and solo tackles (37). And he is in elite company historically with his play through the first five weeks of the season. 

Three of the four players that Franklin joins in this feat are former First Team All-Pro selections. 

  • Ray Lewis
  • Luke Kuechly
  • Zach Thomas

And Franklin's play this year warrants his first Pro Bowl selection, as well as being named an All-Pro. His new nickname may be "The King Slayer," but "All-Pro" Zaire Franklin has quite the ring to it. 

People around the league are starting to take notice of Franklin's play to start this season. And it is warranted he has not only been the best linebacker on the Colts, but he has been the best LB in the entire NFL this year.