Oregon wide receiver Troy Franklin is a big-time playmaker in the 2024 NFL Draft. Franklin was dominant for the Ducks this season, totaling 81 receptions for 1,383 yards and 14 touchdowns. Franklin is a dynamic vertical threat with the deep speed necessary to take the top off opposing defenses.
Franklin is a nightmare assignment in single coverage. His route-running prowess and ability to alter his tempo stresses cornerbacks in the deep portions of the field. The East Palo Alto, California native is capable of producing 700-plus receiving yards as a rookie. With that in mind, we've identified three potential team fits for Franklin at the next level.
BUFFALO BILLS
The Bills are such a perfect fit for Franklin's skill set. There's much commotion over Stefon Diggs' future with the franchise. Ultimately, it's difficult to imagine the Bills actually moving on from a premium talent like Diggs when they’re in the midst of a Super Bowl window. Not to mention, it'd be financially prohibitive to part ways with their star wideout.
Franklin's downfield abilities would complement Diggs nicely. Gabe Davis is an unrestricted free agent and isn't expected to return to Buffalo. Davis failed to properly take advantage of a larger role opposite Diggs and both sides are interested in a fresh start. With Davis' inevitable departure looming large, general manager Brandon Beane must add a field-stretching receiver to his offense. Franklin should be a target with the 28th overall selection.
KANSAS CITY CHIEFS
The Chiefs will play for Super Bowl LVIII on Sunday despite having obvious shortcomings at the wide receiver position. Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, and elite defense have helped the Chiefs overcome their personnel deficiencies. Regardless of Sunday's result, Chiefs general manager Brett Veach must upgrade the receiver spot this offseason.
Rashee Rice has performed admirably as a rookie wideout and possesses the traits necessary to develop into a legitimate go-to playmaker. The likes of Skyy Moore, Kadarius Toney, and Mecole Hardman haven't worked out for Kansas City, though. Pairing Rice with Franklin would give the Chiefs an ascending duo. If Franklin is on the board at 31st or 32nd overall, he'll garner serious consideration from Veach.
CAROLINA PANTHERS
New head coach Dave Canales has been hired to maximize Bryce Young's abilities. As the ex-Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive coordinator, Canales understands the impact a stable group of receivers can have on a quarterback after helping Baker Mayfield experience career-best success with Mike Evans and Chris Godwin at his disposal. The goal is to replicate that in Carolina.
The Panthers don't have a first-round selection as a result of their aggressive trade-up for Young, which backfired in year one. The Panthers must continue investing in Young's development as a result. They didn't surround Young with NFL-level receivers after trading away D.J. Moore. In an extremely deep receiver class, first-year general manager Dan Morgan must target a receiver with the No. 33 overall selection. Franklin has been projected as a second-round pick. Carolina is a straightforward destination if Franklin makes it to day two.
