Offensive lineman Orlando Franklin has signed a five-year deal worth $36.5 million to join the San Diego Chargers, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
When it gets done, Orlando Franklin's 5-year deal with Chargers expected to come in close to $36.5 million with $20M guaranteed, per sources
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 9, 2015
When the Denver Broncos selected Franklin in the second round of the 2011 NFL draft, they picked up an immediate starter at right tackle; he started 53 games there in three seasons and proved himself to be effective in both pass protection and in the run game.
He moved from right tackle to left guard for the 2014 season and proved to the league his game translates to the interior offensive line, finishing as Pro Football Focus‘ fifth-ranked left guard (subscription required). He allowed only one sack and 11 quarterback pressures overall, which is good for any guard—let alone one who played his entire NFL career at tackle before last season.
Versatility made him more attractive to teams, which is why he received this lucrative deal with the Chargers. He’ll be a mainstay along that offensive line for years, be it at right tackle, left guard or wherever they choose to play him. He can likely play all five positions on the line and not miss a beat.
This comes on the heels of San Diego retaining former Pro Bowl cornerback Brandon Flowers. Needless to say, the team is putting in work during the early part of the offseason.
Photo: USA Today