5 Carolina Panthers with work to do ahead of Week 5 vs. Eagles
By Dean Jones
Sam Franklin – Carolina Panthers S
There was a slight opportunity awaiting Sam Franklin in Week 4 after Juston Burris was forced to the injured/reserve list thanks to a problem suffered at the Houston Texans.
The safety was expected to split time alongside Jeremy Chinn on the backed with Sean Chandler. But it was clear from very early on that it was going to be a rough day for the former Temple star.
Franklin struggled in coverage and was a virtual non-factor against the run as the Dallas Cowboys went through Phil Snow’s defense like a hot knife through butter.
The 2020 undrafted free agent wasn’t entirely at fault for the team’s failings, obviously. But Franklin will know more than anyone that a significant upturn in production is needed moving forward.
The player has appeared in just 19 percent of Carolina’s defensive snaps this season, which takes a substantial surge up to 67% when it comes to special teams.
Franklin made some encouraging strides during his rookie campaign and the coaching staff clearly loves him. But there will come a time when his “development project” tag needs to evolve into something more.
If that doesn’t happen soon, then his future with the franchise is in serious doubt next spring.