Sam Franklin Jr. steps in as starter for Bills during practice
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 4, 2026, 1:25 AM
Last updated Aug 4, 2026
During practice on August 3, 2026, Buffalo Bills safety Sam Franklin Jr. took starting reps in place of injured C.J. Gardner-Johnson. Gardner-Johnson suffered a lower leg strain during training camp, raising concerns among fans about the team's depth. With Franklin's promotion, he bypassed rookie Jalon Kilgore and others expected to compete for the role. The shift comes amid coaching changes that may influence player positioning, offering new opportunities for all safeties on the roster.
- •C.J. Gardner-Johnson injured during training camp practice.
- •Franklin took starting reps at safety during Monday's practice.
- •Coaching changes may impact player roles amid competition.
- •Rookie Jalon Kilgore was expected to vie for the starting role.
- •Franklin's promotion highlights overall safety depth for the Bills.
- 1:25 AMYahoo Sports — Buffalo Bills S Sam Franklin Jr. gets starting reps during Monday’s practice
"The Buffalo Bills surprised many by having Sam Franklin Jr. start Monday’s practice for an injured C.J. Gardner-Johnson.
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