While Denver sports fans were still processing the shocking news of Michael Malone’s departure from the Nuggets, something quietly stirred in the city’s football world.
The Denver Broncos continued their offseason maneuvering without fanfare, focused on strengthening specific areas of their roster.
Tuesday brought word of a new addition to the Broncos’ special teams unit, now under the direction of coordinator Darren Rizzi.
The team reportedly secured a one-year agreement with a former Carolina Panthers safety, adding depth to both their secondary and special teams coverage units.
“The #Broncos are signing former #Panthers safety Sam Franklin to a 1-year deal, per source,” reported Ari Meirov of 33rd Team.
The #Broncos are signing former #Panthers safety Sam Franklin to a 1-year deal, per source.
Franklin, a former undrafted free agent in 2020, spent the last five seasons in Carolina and totaled 105 tackles during his time there. pic.twitter.com/8EiWTS6bxU
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) April 8, 2025
Franklin brings five seasons of NFL experience to Denver after carving out a role with the Panthers since joining as an undrafted free agent in 2020.
While primarily making his mark on special teams, he’s also accumulated nearly 800 defensive snaps and nine starts during his career in Carolina.
His arrival creates an interesting competition in the Broncos’ safety room, where he’ll compete with JL Skinner, Delarrin Turner-Yell, and Devon Key for playing time.
Franklin’s special teams prowess might give him an edge in securing a roster spot, complementing the team’s earlier acquisition of Talanoa Hufanga in free agency.
The signing addresses a special teams void created by Tremon Smith’s departure while potentially adding defensive depth.
Franklin showed flashes of playmaking ability in 2023, recording 30 tackles and a memorable 99-yard interception return for a touchdown during his 289 defensive snaps.
Though a foot injury sidelined him for the first seven games of 2024, he returned to contribute on special teams, even as his defensive opportunities dwindled to just four snaps.
NEXT: Broncos Hosted Top-30 Visit With Interesting WR Prospect
