Franklin Signs Franchise Tag Tender

The San Francisco 49ers have announced that nose tackle Aubrayo Franklin has signed his one-year, $7.003 million franchise tag contract. Franklin will not play in tonight’s game but will be in attendance fielding questions from media.

Franklin hoped to sign a long-term contract but it will have to wait until after the season. He might play in the team’s last preseason game on Thursday against the Chargers.

Aubrayo Franklin's Return: Ricky Jean Francois Is Ready For Now

The news of Aubrayo Franklin’s impending return likely means the end of Ricky Jean Francois’ intense run of playing time this offseason will be coming to an end. Of course, Franklin has to show he’s in game shape and ready to be the center of the defensive line. Until then, RJF can handle his business.

Since Franklin is only signed to a one-year deal, it will be interesting to see what the 49ers do with him and RJF in the offseason:

It remains to be seen if the 49ers and Franklin will work out a long term deal beyond this season. Given the emergence of RJF, the team might decide it’s comfortable turning the nose tackle reins over to him and letting Franklin walk. Of course, one offseason and training camp of solid work does not guarantee RJF is ready to take over the job on a full time basis. That’s a gamble the 49ers have to decide whether they’re willing to take.

49ers DT Aubrayo Franklin To Report To San Francisco; Sign Franchise Contract

San Francisco 49ers defensive tackle Aubrayo Franklin hasn't been with the team at all this fall, but that soon will change.

Franklin is expected to fly to San Francisco on Saturday to undergo his physical and sign his $7.003 million contract according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.

The 29-year-old Franklin has recorded 291 tackles, four sacks, one interception and three forced fumbles in his seven-year career. Franklin entered the league as a fifth-round pick by Baltimore in 2003, but came to the Bay as a free agent before the 2007 season.

Since the 49ers tagged Franklin as a franchise player, his salary was determined as either the average of the top five salaried players at his position or at a salary at least 120% of his previous year's salary, whichever of the two is the higher amount.