Benjie Franklin

BIOGRAPHY

Benjie Franklin, born on October 22, 1996, is a consummate athlete in the world of American professional football. Best known for his position as a defensive back, Franklin’s football journey has led him to be a part of reputed teams in leagues across the United States and Canada.

The kickoff to Franklin’s football career took place in college; attending Navarro College, he played for the college’s team, the Bulldogs, from 2017 to 2018. A formidable player from the start, Franklin’s performances began drawing attention from scouts and coaches. Following his successful stint at Navarro, Franklin decided to transfer to Tarleton State University. There, he continued his sports career with the Texans.

From 2019 to 2021, Franklin formed an integral part of the Texans. He participated in 29 games, impressing both team management and supporters alike with his defensive prowess. Over his tenure with the Texans, Franklin achieved 103 tackles, eight interceptions, and one fumble recovery; impressive stats that would follow him through his professional career.

Upon the conclusion of his college play, Franklin made the step into professional sports. On May 2, 2022, he signed on with the Jacksonville Jaguars as an undrafted free agent. Despite his best efforts, Franklin realized the competitive nature of the sport when he was part of the final cuts that took place on August 29, 2022.

Not discouraged by the setback, Franklin found his next opportunity swiftly. On September 1, 2022, he was taken on by the Green Bay Packers. Although he spent most of the season on the practice roster, he made a good enough impression to be re-signed on January 19, 2023. His stint with Green Bay however was to end when he was released later that year on May 17, 2023.

Franklin signed with another NFL franchise, the Seattle Seahawks, on June 1, 2023. The end of the preseason brought more changes for Franklin when he was released on August 27, 2023.

Showing his resilience once more, Franklin landed a place on the Toronto Argonauts practice roster on September 12, 2023, marking his first foray into the Canadian Football League. Being a part of the Argonauts presented Franklin with a chance to make his professional debut. Already first place in their division, the Argonauts decided to rest some of their regulars and Franklin was called up for the last regular season game on October 28, 2023, against the Ottawa Redblacks. In this game, he made his mark with four defensive tackles and one interception. Franklin reverted back to the practice roster shortly after, with his contract finally expiring on November 13, 2023.

Early in 2024, Franklin started a new chapter in his professional journey by signing with the San Antonio Brahmas on January 20. Unfortunately, Franklin was released by the team near the end of their training camp on March 10, 2024.

The professional journey of Franklin took him back to the Canadian Football League, as he re-signed with the Toronto Argonauts on April 2, 2024. This second chance with the Argonauts provided Franklin with another opportunity to showcase his rich defensive skills and experience to Canadian football fans.

Throughout his remarkable career, Benjie Franklin has skillfully handled the many changes and challenges that came his way, displaying not just his prowess in football, but also his never-give-up attitude. He continues to inspire numerous aspiring athletes with his journey in American professional football.