Sam Franklin Jr.

Sam Franklin Jr.'s Biography

Samuel Lamar Franklin, popularly known as Sam Franklin, is a standout professional football safety well recognized for his athletic abilities and devotion to the sport. Born on February 2, 1996, Franklin embarked on his professional journey in the National Football League (NFL) as a member of the Carolina Panthers.

A natural since his early days, Franklin spent his youth days in Crystal River, Florida, where he was an active participant on his high school’s football team. At Citrus High School, he showcased his versatility by playing wide receiver, safety, and linebacker. University of Massachusetts spotted the promising athlete within him, but unfortunately, academic hurdles impeded his path to university-level football.

Not one to accept defeat, Franklin turned this setback into an opportunity for growth. He enrolled at East Coast Prep to bolster his academic prowess. There, he rubbed shoulders with future teammate Myles Hartsfield and made significant strides both academically and in honing his football skills.

In the following years, Franklin emerged as a valuable asset to the Temple Owls where he was a part of the team for four seasons. Initially starting as a defensive back, he later transitioned to the position of linebacker. Witnessing his impeccable tackle skills as a senior, when he ended up as the team’s third-leading tackler with 68 tackles alongside 7.5 tackles for loss, it was clear that Franklin was on his way to bigger stages. Over his collegiate career, he recorded 194 tackles, 24 tackles for loss, eight sacks, two interceptions, 10 pass breakups, three fumble recoveries, and one forced fumble in an impressive 53 games played.

A significant turning point came on May 2, 2020, when Franklin’s career took a leap as he was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Carolina Panthers. He seized his first meaningful action against the Chicago Bears, stepping up and performing admirably when Juston Burris was benched due to injury, making two key tackles.

In the ninth week against the Kansas City Chiefs, Franklin took the audience by surprise by recording his first career sack on the renowned Patrick Mahomes, establishing a firm foothold in the game, despite a 33-31 loss. Week 4 of the 2023 season brought greater triumphs as he made his first career interception against the Minnesota Vikings, which he impressively returned 99 yards for his first NFL defensive touchdown. This feat triumphantly set the franchise record for longest interception returned for a touchdown. Carrying forward the momentum, Franklin celebrated a new personal best by making eight total tackles including seven solo stops just a week later in the game against Detroit.

However, an unfortunate event in July 2024 put a temporary halt on his football journey, as Franklin was diagnosed with a broken foot during a training camp practice. Consequently, the rest of the season saw him recuperating on an injured reserve. Through the highs and lows of his career, Franklin’s dedication to the sport and his constant strive for excellence have been a model for aspiring athletes and football enthusiasts globally. His journey mirrors that of an athlete who knows how to transform setbacks into opportunities and shine in every scenario.