The Patriots could use his veteran leadership at a linebacker position that is missing team captain Ja’Whaun Bentley, who suffered a season-ending pectoral injury in September. Franklin would offer stability to a Patriots defense that has not been consistent all year.

Zaire Franklin cracked a smile. The Indianapolis Colts linebacker knew at some point he would have to formally address his back-and-forth with Pat McAfee, the former Colts punter turned media star. Franklin took exception to how McAfee criticized his teammate,

I’ve got a lot of respect for Pat. ... I think maybe I probably didn’t handle it the right way going into it.'