Considering the perceived need to have an upper echelon NT in the 3-4, many Chiefs fans believe that Aubrayo Franklin is a no-brainer of a free agent signing. After taking a look at the future free agent NTs in the coming years, here are the "elite" with FA year and current age:

 

Jay Ratliff 2013 29

Ryan Pickett 2014 31

Vince Wilfork 2015 29

Casey Hampton 2013 33

Kyle Williams 2013 28

Sione Pouha 2012 32

Haloti Ngata 2012 27

 

After looking at this list, and assuming A.Franklin is a top tier NT, I have to assume he may be the best NT option for, at a minimum, the next 2 free agent classes. He turns 31 in August, but most on this list will be at least that old when they hit free agency, too.

I understand the idea behind "developing" Powe, but what if the development doesn't occur. We will be a couple years down the road, having this same discussion, more than likely picking someone less talented and productive as Franklin.

I'm still on the fence about whether we should or shouldn't, this was simply for those of you wanting more ammo in the SIGN AUBRAYO FRANKLIN camp.

In Pioli we trust...