Newcomer's Message After Broncos Cut and Bills Signing

Buffalo, New York — September 2025 — Less than 48 hours after parting ways with the Denver Broncos, safety Sam Franklin Jr. found a new home in Buffalo. The veteran defensive back first signed with the Bills’ practice squad on August 27, 2025, before being elevated to the active roster on September 4 — a quick rise that reflects Buffalo’s belief in his versatility and proven special-teams value.

Franklin entered the league in 2020 as an undrafted free agent with the Carolina Panthers, where he built a résumé of consistency and toughness. Over five seasons, he appeared in 74 games with nine starts, logging more than 60% of the Panthers’ special-teams snaps every year since 2021, including a peak of 84% in 2024. Defensively, he’s credited with 105 tackles, one sack, one interception (a 99-yard pick-six), and a forced fumble — proof that when called upon, he can deliver game-changing plays.

“I’m not dwelling on the past — I’m focused,” Franklin said. “Denver made their choice, but Buffalo gave me a shot. I’m here to show what I can do.”

For the Bills, the signing was strategic. After the Broncos released Franklin during final roster cuts on August 26, Buffalo moved quickly to secure a player who can cover kicks, tackle in space, and serve as a plug-in option in the secondary. The front office views him as a seamless fit for a roster that prizes discipline, energy, and reliability across all three phases.

Franklin’s stint in Denver was brief — he had signed a one-year guaranteed contract back in April, only to be released at the end of camp. Yet the Bills’ swift action highlights both the league-wide respect for his special-teams résumé and Buffalo’s intent to harden its depth chart before Week 1.

In the immediate future, Franklin is expected to contribute on special teams while learning Bobby Babich’s defensive system. Long term, his veteran presence, grit, and professionalism could make him an integral part of a Bills locker room that thrives on resilience and accountability.

For Sam Franklin Jr., Denver may have closed a door — but Buffalo opened another, and the opportunity is already taking shape.