Former Carolina Panthers safety Sam Franklin has agreed to a one-year deal with the Denver Broncos, his agent Harold Lewis confirmed Tuesday. The contract could earn Franklin up to $1.5 million as he heads to the Mile High City.
Known for his impact on special teams, Franklin played in all 17 games for Carolina in 2022, leading the team with 13 special teams tackles — the highest total by a Panther since 2012. A foot injury limited his availability in 2023, restricting him to just 10 appearances.
An undrafted free agent out of Temple in 2020, Franklin had a standout senior season in 2019, recording 68 tackles (7.5 for loss), one interception, and two defensive touchdowns — one off a pick and another off a fumble recovery.
Franklin spent the last five seasons with the Panthers, appearing in 74 career games. During that span, he totaled 105 tackles, one sack, an interception, and a forced fumble. Ahead of the 2023 season, he was named a team captain — a testament to his leadership and presence in the locker room. Over his career, Franklin has logged 782 snaps on defense and 1,327 on special teams, underscoring his versatility and value across the field.
