Aubrayo

Franklin

Making $4 million, Rogers was bust in his first season in New Orleans, tallying just 22 tackles and zero sacks. Franklin was even less productive, making 17 tackles in a part-time role. If Rogers is back, it will be at a cheaper price.

Franklin, who turns 32 before the season, is a rotational, early-down run defender at this stage of his career. He’d compete for a backup job in Atlanta.

The 49ers’ franchise player in 2010, Franklin’s play has declined in each of the past two seasons. Signing Franklin as a situational run-stuffer could allow the Seahawks to go linebacker or defensive line early in the draft.

The Chiefs are looking to shore up the league’s 26th ranked run defense, and Franklin would presumably come cheap after playing just 296 snaps for the Saints last season. Five months shy of his 32nd birthday, Franklin hasn’t lined up any visits since the start of free agency.

“I think he would like to come back and play,” said Crennel. “I think he likes the situation.” The Chiefs have shown interest in several veterans, including Aubrayo Franklin, but they’ve informed the free agents that no signing will occur until after next month’s draft.

Franklin, who turns 32 next month, flopped miserably in New Orleans’ 4-3 scheme last year, but has always been better cut out to play nose tackle in a 3-4 like the Chargers’. San Diego fielded one of the softer front sevens in football a year ago, and the 320-pound Franklin adds another mammoth body behind Antonio Garay and Cam Thomas. If Franklin is in shape and motivated, he could push for a starting job.

Franklin was originally believed to have a foot injury. It’s a big blow for the reeling Chargers, and should significantly weaken their No. 2 run defense. Playing under a one-year, $890,000 contract, Franklin has graded out as Pro Football Focus’ 16th best defensive tackle with 10 weeks in the books.

Franklin is the anchor of the Chargers’ 3-4 and their run-stuffer. Doug Martin is in the midst of another big game.

The Bolts could be nearing a record for IRed players. DBs Sean Cattouse and Greg Gatson were promoted from the practice squad in corresponding roster moves. Signed on the eve of training camp, Franklin appeared in 12 games, starting nine. The 32-year-old run stuffer graded out positively in Pro Football Focus’ ratings. Provided he’s healthy, Franklin shouldn’t hurt for one-year offers this offseason.

The Colts’ spending spree continues unabated. Indianapolis will be Franklin’s fourth team in as many seasons. Franklin appeared in 12 games, starting nine, last year before landing on injured reserve with a knee injury. A pure run stopper, he played just 285 snaps. That will be Franklin’s role for the Colts, who are looking to improve a run defense that allowed 5.1 yards per carry in 2012.