2. Sam Franklin Jr., S
The 2023 campaign was a breakout year for Sam Franklin Jr. The former undrafted free agent safety played a personal-best 289 defensive snaps in his fourth NFL season, resulting in career highs when it came to solo tackles (20) and defended passes (3) while also returning his first-ever interception for a 99-yard touchdown.
Unfortunately, Franklin didn't get a chance to properly build off that performance.
The former Temple Owl broke his foot during training camp last offseason, delaying his 2024 debut until late October. He had lost his spot in the secondary by then, playing only four defensive snaps in 10 games compared to the 241 he saw on special teams, leading to five solo tackles and a 62.9 grade on Pro Football Focus.
Even though the Panthers let Franklin hit free agency, his time with the franchise might not be over yet. For starters, Carolina could give him a second chance considering how injuries ruined his latest campaign, preventing him from showing if his 2023 performance was a fluke or not.
Additionally, it's clear that Franklin is someone who Panthers special teams coordinator Tracy Smith trusts. The veteran safety has played an average of 265.4 special teams snaps per season, and the Panthers could bring him back for a similar role after they round out the rest of the roster.
Either way, a cheap, one-year 'prove yourself' contract isn't off the table just yet.