Franklin-Myers has become a reliable interior disruptor, posting 7.5 sacks and 23 pressures this season. His ability to line up at defensive end or inside at tackle gives any defense added flexibility, and his motor has consistently translated into production despite not being the youngest player in the class.
With the Broncos already loaded with long-term defensive contracts, Franklin-Myers is widely viewed as a candidate to move on in free agency. Bleacher Report’s Alex Kay has pegged the Chicago Bears as the top landing spot, arguing that pairing Franklin-Myers with a rising head-coach-quarterback duo and a strong defensive front would bolster a contender’s chances.
The Bears, led by head coach Ben Johnson and quarterback Caleb Williams, are positioned to contend again next season after a playoff run. Franklin-Myers’ versatility—able to contribute at both end and inside—along with his relentless motor, would allow him to adapt to multiple fronts and roles on a game-to-game or play-to-play basis, according to Kay.
Market projections for Franklin-Myers appear conservative relative to his skill set. Spotrac’s current forecast suggests a 2-year, roughly $15.7 million deal, a figure that sits well below some expectations for a player of his interior pressure capacity. Benchmark comparisons to recent deals, such as Milton Williams’ four-year, $104 million contract, imply a potential path toward something closer to $15 million per year, or about a two-year, $30 million agreement.
ESPN’s Matt Bowen places Franklin-Myers at No. 11 on the Top 50 free agents for 2026, noting that while he lacks elite lateral speed and bend for traditional edge sacks, he is a productive interior rusher who can play multiple techniques. Bowen highlighted the season stats of 7.5 sacks and 23 pressures as evidence of his value inside as a disruptor.
As the 2026 cycle approaches, Franklin-Myers remains a premier target for teams seeking a versatile, interior pass-rusher with starting-caliber experience. The Bears are one prominent option discussed by analysts, but multiple clubs are likely to pursue his services, making his destination a key storyline of the upcoming market.
