5 Carolina Panthers who could be released ahead of time in 2022
By Dean Jones
Sam Franklin – Carolina Panthers S
- Dead-cap figure: $5,000
- Cap savings: $895,000
To say Sam Frankin exceeded expectations in 2020 would be the biggest of understatements. The safety arrived with the Carolina Panthers as an undrafted free agent and not only made the 53-man roster but got some meaningful reps on the rotation to further boost his development.
This left many associated with the Panthers hopeful Franklin would take some big steps forward in pursuit of potentially becoming Jeremy Chinn’s long-term partner on the backend. Sadly, this hasn’t come to fruition.
Franklin has been on the field for just 14 percent of the team’s defensive snaps. Although the player remains a special teams contributor, the coaching staff clearly favor Myles Hartsfield and Sean Chandler over the Temple product.
His lack of involvement could be something to do with the fact Franklin’s given up some big plays in coverage from a limited time on the field. Couple this with a 35.5 grade from Pro Football Focus – one of the lowest for players at the position – and it’s not hard to see why he might be an early cut candidate this offseason.
Again, Franklin being cheap might help his cause. Matt Rhule is also fiercely loyal to his former college players – which hasn’t always been a recipe for success in the pros.