Former Last Chance U Star to See Expanded Role in Buccaneers Offense

John Franklin III will potentiality see a big role in the Tampa Bay Buccaneers offense this season. According to Head Coach Bruce Arians, Franklin III will have “multiple” roles on offense.

Arians said, “He’s a very interesting athlete. I mean, you know he’d never played defense. He’s one of those guys who’ve got so much talent and athletic ability, you’re trying to find a place for him. We ran that little wildcat package with him, and he did a great job with it. He can throw. He’s coming in as a wide receiver, so he’ll be in the offensive rooms. He could possibly give us a third quarterback on Sunday with his ability, so he’s got a lot of options, and it’s up to him to make the ballclub as a wideout.”

Franklin III, 25, signed with the Chicago Bears as an undrafted free agent in 2018. He was brought in to play cornerback despite playing quarterback and wide receiver in college. Franklin III would spend the 2018 season on the Bears practice squad before being released.

However, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers signed Franklin III to their practice squad on November 13th, 2019. He was then promoted to the 53-man roster for the last game of the season. In his first and final game, Franklin III played Wildcat Quarterback for one play, running for 11 yards, against the Houston Texans.

Look for Franklin III to have a role like Saints quarterback, Taysom Hill. The Saints QB also plays wide receiver, running back, and special teams. If given the opportunity Franklin III, could be a splash player for many years to come.