San Diego Chargers Sign DT Aubrayo Franklin

In somewhat of an odd move, the San Diego Chargers announced today that they've signed veteran Nose Tackle Aubrayo Franklin.

After consistently starting (and playing well) as a part of Greg Manusky's defense in San Francisco, Franklin signed a one-year deal for $4 million last year with the New Orleans Saints. He managed just 12 tackles despite appearing in all 16 games, and started in only 10 games.

After having success in the Ravens' 3-4 scheme and then the 49ers' 3-4 scheme, it makes sense that Franklin was a poor fit for Gregg Williams' 4-3 defense in New Orleans. At just 31 years old, and with 70 starts to his name, Aubrayo would be a fantastic pick up for any 3-4 defense that needed a solid backup or maybe even a starter. However, with Antonio Garay and Cam Thomas, it's a little curious where Franklin fits into John Pagano's defensive strategy.

Either way, this is a solid player that the Chargers undoubtedly signed for cheap (considering how late it is in free agency and how much cap room they had left). You can never have too much talent on the defensive line, especially with the release of Luis Castillo yesterday.

Aubrayo Franklin

#99 / San Diego Chargers

Height: 6-1

Weight: 317

Born: Sep 27, 1980

College: Tennessee