Aubrayo Franklin's Expected Return Bolsters San Francisco 49ers' Defense

On August 24th I wrote the article "Aubrayo Franklin Still Missing From San Francisco 49er Defense." I suggested that Franklin needed to get into camp for the benefit of the Niners, and if he personally wants to have a productive 2010 season.

I'm fairly certain that my article had absolutely no bearing on Aubrayo Franklin's status. However, as ESPN.com originally reported yesterday, it now appears that Franklin is likely to arrive this Saturday. He is expected to sign his contract and take his physical. 

Franklin had originally hoped to re-negotiate his agreement with the 49ers and get a long-term deal. Instead, the 49ers designated Franklin as their Franchise Player, and he will get roughly $7 million for one season.

This arrival date gives Franklin two full weeks to get his timing down and get into better football playing shape before the first regular season game on September 12th at Seattle. Defensive coordinator Greg Manusky is looking forward to seeing Franklin back in a 49er's uniform.

Aubrayo Franklin was a legitimate Pro Bowl candidate at nose tackle last year. He is a solid anchor for the San Francisco defensive line. His size and strength forces opposing teams to block him with two players, usually a center and guard. This helps free up Patrick Willis and Takeo Spikes to make tackles without needing to fight off as much blocking.

Ricky Jean-Francois was playing nose tackle thus far in the preseason for the Niner defense and was doing a very good job. Head Coach Mike Singletary was pleased with his development and has praised him on several occasions.

Jean-Francois is younger and more mobile than Franklin; however he has never been subjected to the rigors of playing a full 16 game schedule in the NFL. For all the talent this guy has, he has not yet proven he can hold up over the course of an entire season.

I envision both Aubrayo Franklin and Ricky Jean-Francois playing a lot this year. The tandem puts the 49er defensive line in the best possible position with their current roster. Splitting time at the nose tackle spot will also help to ensure that both players are fresher and more effective in the fourth quarter.

Isaac Sopoaga will be able to play full time at defensive end, his more natural position. Justin Smith, a 100 percent effort guy, is a top defensive end opposite Sopoaga. Ray McDonald will be used as a situational pass rusher. 

If Ricky Jean-Francois plays well and remains healthy, he could be in line to take over the position full time in 2011. The Niners are watching to see if he has durability and can prove himself as a consistent player this year.

Looking ahead, Franklin will still want big money and if the 49er management believes Ricky Jean-Francois can handle the job in 2011, they can elect to let Franklin move on. In the meantime, having both players for the upcoming season is the best possible scenario the San Francisco 49ers could have hoped for.