Packers trade up to add UCLA’s Franklin to backfield

GREEN BAY–Competition in the Packers backfield increased significantly when the team selected UCLA running back Johnathan Franklin following a trade up into the fourth round with the Denver Broncos.

Franklin, 5-10, 201, was thought to be one of the fast-rising players in the draft, but mysteriously lasted into the fourth round. He was a late-season hit last year and followed that up with a strong performance at the Senior Bowl.

“A hungry, downhill, one-cut runner with the competitive zeal, football character and toughness to contribute immediately,” a draft publication said of Franklin.
The Packers selected Alabama running back Eddie Lacy in the second round.

Denver got the Packers’ fifth (146) and sixth-round (173) picks.