John Franklin-Myers, who turns 29 in September, was productive for multiple seasons with the Jets under Robert Saleh
The San Francisco 49ers need a contingency plan in the event the NFL Draft board doesn’t fall their way a week from today. It’s no secret the team has a dire need at defensive tackle after releasing Maliek Collins and Javon Hargrave this offseason.
Many believe the Niners will select a defensive lineman with at least one of their first three picks, if not two. What if there’s a run on defensive tackles ahead of pick No. 11? There figures to be a run ahead of pick No. 43. The point is, there’s no guarantee that the 49ers will have the opportunity to select the prospects they want. Teams could trade ahead of San Francisco to pounce on a defensive tackle, foiling their first-round plans.
From top 15 picks to trading late Day 3 picks, the 49ers haven’t discriminated when it comes to how they’re willing to acquire talent or depth along the defensive line. If the Niners don’t get the opportunity to double down on a defensive tackle in the early rounds — or if they view this veteran as an upgrade on the roster — Jon Franklin-Myers is an intriguing option for Kris Kocurek.
Franklin-Myers turns 29 in September. He was a member of the New York Jets from 2020, Robert Saleh’s first season in the Big Apple, through 2023. Even better, from 2021 to 2023, Franklin-Myers appeared in every game.
Saleh dealt with a lot of youth during his stint in New York. He’s coming back to San Francisco in a similiar situation. Adding Franklin-Myers takes pressure on whichever rookie(s) the 49ers draft, as well as the players returning to perform.
Franklin-Myers had seven sacks last season in Denver, and hit the quarterback one fewer time than Nick Bosa. The production was there. His calling card is run defense, making him an attractive option.
So, why would Denver part ways with Franklin-Myers? Franklin-Myers is entering the final year of his contract. Denver will need to pay Nik Bonitto and Zach Allen next offseason, making Franlkin-Myers the odd man out.
The Niners could take on Franklin-Myers contract, and even extend him if they please. The cost to acquire him wouldn’t cost more than a Day 3 pick. So add a quality starter and don’t need to double down on defensive tackle in the first few rounds, freeing up a premium pick to be used at another position.