Every year, a player not very well known to the general public gets a huge contract in free agency. Nose tackle Aubrayo Franklin, who has played for the Ravens and then San Francisco, has a good chance to be that guy this year.
When the lockout ends, he’s going to be the premier 3-4 nose tackle on the market. With Paul Soliai franchised in Miami and Pat Williams possibly facing suspension, Franklin is practically the only quality nose tackle available.
Matt Maiocco of ComcastBayArea.com writes that the 49ers will try to keep him, but it sounds like they know it’s a long shot. They chose against using the franchise tag on him and have already discussed moving Isaac Sopoaga to the nose if Franklin leaves.
Franklin has been a fine run stopper the last two years. The Redskins figure to be at the top of the list of teams that show interest in him. The Jets, Texans, Broncos, Vikings, and Seahawks also have a need, with the 3-4 teams making the most sense.