The 49ers signed nose tackle Aubrayo Franklin (right) to a three year, $6 million contract in early March with the expectation that he could be the space eater for the defense. San Francisco ranked 19th in rushing defense last season, allowing 121.0 yards per game on the ground.
Coach Mike Nolan has ties to Franklin from his days in Baltimore as the Ravens' D-coordinator. And it's evident that Nolan has the utmost confidence that Franklin, a fifth-round pick in 2003, can solidify the middle and help improve the team's rush defense.Last year, Franklin saw playing time as the primary backup to Ravens starting defensive tackle Kelly Gregg. His patience should pay off this season, and his performance will be a critical factor in determining whether the Niners' 3-4 defense will be successful. If Franklin can clog the middle and absorb blockers, he will open rushing lanes for the team's explosive blitzing linebackers.
The recent addition of D-lineman Sam Rayburn, who was signed to a one-year deal for the minimum salary of $595,000, should provide some depth at nose tackle, too, and he's also expected to back up veteran Bryant Young at left DE. Despite picking up Rayburn, the team has lofty expectations for Franklin, who is determined to take full advantage of his new opportunity.
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