Report: Broncos Sign Former Panthers Safety
The Denver Broncos made a late move in free agency on Tuesday, agreeing to a one-year contract with former Carolina Panthers safety Sam Franklin, as reported by Ari Meirov of The 33rd Team.
The deal, confirmed by Luca Evans of The Denver Post, is worth up to $1.5 million for the upcoming season.
Undrafted in 2020, Franklin has played 74 games over the last five years for the Panthers, accumulating 105 tackles and one interception, which was a 99-yard pick-six. The majority of his career snaps (1,327 out of 2,109) have come on special teams. Franklin was placed on injured reserve in 2024 due to a broken foot.
Standing at 6-3 and weighing 210 pounds, Franklin played four seasons at Temple, initially starting as an outside linebacker before transitioning to the defensive backfield. Over his college career, he recorded 194 tackles (24 for loss), eight sacks, eight pass breakups, three fumble recoveries, two interceptions, and two touchdowns.
“He’s impossible to miss,” said former Panthers punter Johnny Hekker in October. “Sam is a presence. He brings energy everywhere he goes, whether it’s on the field, in meetings, or during practice. He’s a vocal leader who holds everyone accountable and raises the stakes with his competitiveness.”
Franklin’s signing marks the seventh outside free agent addition by Denver this offseason. He joins a safety group that includes starters Brandon Jones and Talanoa Hufanga. Depending on how things unfold, Franklin may compete with players like P.J. Locke, Delarrin Turner-Yell, Devon Key, and JL Skinner for special teams roles and reserve spots.
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