The Buffalo Bills are keeping one of their core special teams players in Orchard Park, NY. Buffalo is re-signing safety Sam Franklin Jr. to a three-year contract worth up to $7.5 million, with $5 million coming in the first two seasons, per a source shared with ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler.

Franklin, who turned 30 on February 2, served primarily on special teams last season where he played on over 75% of the special team snaps, and his impact went well beyond the stat sheet. In a phase of the game that often swings field position and momentum, Franklin consistently played well, carving out a role as one of the unit’s most reliable contributors.

This is not a flashy newsreel move, but it is a foundational one. While Franklin may not headline defensive packages, his value lies in special teams. For the Bills, this signing reinforces a long-standing philosophy: special teams matter. Buffalo has consistently prioritized versatility and players who embrace the third-phase of football. Franklin fits that mold perfectly.