Ex-coaches talk up Orlando Franklin

PHOENIX -- It’s always interesting to get a different perspective from coaches of other teams who worked with new additions to the San Diego Chargers.

At the NFC coaches breakfast Wednesday morning, we had a chance to catch up with two head coaches who worked with recent free-agent additions for the Chargers, offensive lineman Orlando Franklin and cornerback Patrick Robinson.

New Chicago Bears head coach John Fox worked with Franklin while serving as head coach of the Denver Broncos. Fox vouched for Franklin’s toughness and tenacity on the field.

“He’s a great kid,” Fox said. “He started ever since he came out as a rookie. He started at right tackle. We moved him to guard. I think he’s a tremendous teammate and a tremendous young player that I wish nothing but success.”

Fox said Franklin can play in a zone or power scheme up front offensively.

“Yeah, he’s got enough athleticism to play in a zone scheme,” Fox said. “And he’s a big, powerful body coming off.”

Fox also vouched for Franklin’s ability to play with a chip on his shoulder.

“He’s plenty tough enough,” Fox said.


(espn.com)