5 players trending up early at Carolina Panthers 2021 training camp

Sam Franklin – Carolina Panthers S

Considering how few expectations there were regarding Sam Franklin last season, the undrafted free-agent far exceeded hopes and could end up being a prominent part of the rotation with further development.

Franklin performed well on the field as a rookie, proving that the stage wasn’t too big and he could slot in at safety with minimal fuss. A solid foundation from which to build a successful career.

Obviously, how Franklin progresses in Year 2 and beyond is vital.

Matt Rhule stated to the media that he is hoping to get the former Temple star more involved in 2021. But making the necessary adjustments in the coming weeks at training camp will ultimately determine whether this is something the coaching staff will go through with when push comes to shove.

Going off Franklin’s early production at camp, this is something he’s all-too-aware of and is raising his game accordingly. There is definitely an opportunity for the player considering the lack of depth behind projected starting duo Jeremy Chinn and Juston Burris, so the player must leave no doubt he can be counted upon.

Again, Franklin’s level of performance in the preseason will be a factor. But unlike the situation with Omar Bayless, the Panthers do have something to go off in a competitive NFL setting where the player is concerned.