Jaguars working out offensive lineman Orlando Franklin

5/22/2017

The Jaguars may be looking to beef up the offensive line with veteran Orlando Franklin.

By Shareef Alnachoukati

Photo by Jeffrey Beall

The Jaguars have been busy this past week, working out veterans at several different positions. This week they'll work with the 6’6" 315 pound guard/tackle that was released earlier this month by the Los Angeles Chargers. Orlando Franklin, 29, has started in all 89 games he's played in. He was drafted by Denver in 2011 and went on to have an impressive run as a Bronco. He was a vital part of that wall that Denver built to help keep Peyton Manning from getting hit all the time and it worked. Peyton Manning threw for 5,477 yards and 55 TDs in 2013. That O-line also helped produce a 1,000 yard rusher in Knowshon Moreno, who hasn't been heard from since then. After four years in Denver Franklin signed with San Diego on a 5 year deal worth $37 million total.

According to Pro Football Focus, he was ranked ranked 12th best lineman in 2012, 19th in 2013, and 10th in 2014. After the move to San Diego he ranked 76th in 2015 and 66th in 2016. Many blame his poor performance in San Diego on the lack of talent around him on the Chargers O-line. Clearly the

If the Jaguars do sign Franklin, they could keep him at left guard or move him back to right tackle where he was so successful in Denver - of course that could mean the end of Jermey Parnell's days as the teams starting right tackle, but I doubt many Jaguar fans would be too upset about that. This move could help Blake get more time in the pocket and could also benefit first round pick Leonard Fournette.

This workout is similar to the Atterraun Verner situation. Both had success with a team, got a huge contract in another city and didn't fulfill expectations. In other words, they were busts. Could both players help the Jaguars? Yes, but there is no guarantee with free agents especially ones coming off disappointing runs with their last squad.

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