Bills To Re-Sign S Sam Franklin

Buffalo has agreed to a three-year deal with Franklin, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reports. This pact contains $5MM which will be paid out over the first two seasons. With a maximum value of $7.5MM, Franklin’s new contract represents not only a lengthy commitment but also a notable raise compared to his previous one (which was worth the league minimum).

The special teams ace has played on one-year deals dating back to 2023. Franklin’s first five seasons were spent with the Panthers, but he joined the Broncos last year. After being among Denver’s final roster cuts, the 30-year-old immediately caught on with the Bills. Franklin signed to the active roster ahead of Week 1 and remained there all year.

After logging only six defensive snaps in 2025, Franklin will of course be expected to continue as a third phase specialist with Buffalo. The former UDFA handled a 76% snap share on special teams last season, a workload similar to that of his Carolina campaigns. Franklin has only managed nine defensive starts in his career, but despite a lack of experience on that front he has secured a significant compensation package from the Bills.

The safety position could see considerable turnover in Buffalo this spring, as Jordan Poyer, Damar Hamlin and Darnell Savage are all pending free agents. Starters Cole Bishop and Taylor Rapp remain under contract for next year, though, so depth will be sought out on the open market. As outside additions are explored by the team, Franklin has received an early assurance that he will remain in the fold for 2026 and beyond.