Aubrayo Franklin's journey in professional football began when he was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the fifth round of the 2003 NFL Draft. As a defensive tackle, Franklin's role was to anchor the defensive line, a position that requires strength and the ability to read the game effectively. His early years with the Ravens provided him with the opportunity to develop his skills in a competitive environment, although he primarily served as a backup during his tenure with the team.
In 2007, Franklin's career took a significant turn when he signed with the San Francisco 49ers. It was with the 49ers that he found a more prominent role on the field. Franklin became a starting nose tackle in the team's 3-4 defensive scheme, a position that suited his abilities well. His time with the 49ers was marked by consistent performances, and he became known for his ability to stop the run, a critical aspect of the defensive tackle's responsibilities.
Franklin's tenure with the 49ers saw him play under head coach Mike Singletary, and he was part of a defense that was known for its physicality and toughness. His performance in the 2009 season was particularly noteworthy, as he played a crucial role in helping the 49ers rank among the top teams in run defense. Franklin's ability to occupy multiple blockers allowed his teammates to make plays, showcasing the importance of his role in the defensive unit.
After four seasons with the 49ers, Franklin entered free agency and signed with the New Orleans Saints in 2011. His time with the Saints was relatively short, lasting just one season. However, he continued to demonstrate his skills as a run-stopper, contributing to the team's defensive efforts during his stint there.
In 2012, Franklin joined the San Diego Chargers, where he played for one season. His experience and veteran presence were valuable assets to the Chargers' defensive line. Franklin's final season in the NFL came in 2013 when he signed with the Indianapolis Colts. Although his time with the Colts was brief, he added depth to their defensive line rotation.
Throughout his career, Franklin was known for his ability to play the nose tackle position effectively, a role that often goes unnoticed but is vital to the success of a defense.
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