Feleipe Franks Bio
Feleipe Franks (born December 22, 1997) is an American professional football tight end currently playing for the Atlanta Falcons of the National Football League (NFL). Originally a quarterback, he played college football at the University of Florida for three years before transferring to the University of Arkansas for his final season. Franks entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2021.
Early Life and Background
Feleipe Franks was born in Crawfordville, Florida, and attended Wakulla High School in his hometown. During his high school career, he passed for 6,867 yards and 81 touchdowns, establishing himself as a highly regarded quarterback prospect. He was rated as a four-star recruit and ranked as the fifth-best pro-style quarterback nationally by recruiting services.
Initially committed to Louisiana State University, Franks switched his commitment to the University of Florida in late 2015. His early exposure to football in Florida’s competitive high school environment set the foundation for his collegiate career. He also played baseball in high school but did not continue with the sport at the collegiate level.
Path to American Football
Franks redshirted his first year at Florida in 2016. As a redshirt freshman in 2017, he earned the starting quarterback position, beating out other contenders. Despite a challenging start, he secured his first career win with a notable 63-yard Hail Mary pass against Tennessee. His freshman season ended with 1,438 passing yards, nine touchdowns, and eight interceptions.
In 2018, Franks solidified his role as Florida’s starting quarterback, leading the team to a 10–3 record and a Peach Bowl victory. He posted 2,457 passing yards, 24 touchdowns, and seven rushing touchdowns that season. His performance marked a significant turnaround from the previous year and showcased his dual-threat capabilities.
Feleipe Franks Career
Early Career (2017–2019)
During his tenure at Florida, Franks demonstrated growth and resilience. His 2019 season was cut short due to a broken ankle sustained in the third game, which sidelined him for the remainder of the year. Following this injury, he announced his departure from Florida in December 2019.
Franks briefly pursued a professional baseball opportunity when the Boston Red Sox drafted him in 2019, but he chose to continue his football career instead. This decision underscored his commitment to football despite his multi-sport talents.
Arkansas Breakthrough (2020)
In January 2020, Franks transferred to the University of Arkansas for his final collegiate season. He was named a team captain and starting quarterback for the season opener. One of his notable achievements at Arkansas was leading the Razorbacks to a 21–14 victory over No. 16 Mississippi State, breaking a 20-game SEC losing streak and a 15-game losing streak against ranked opponents.
Atlanta Falcons Era (2021–Present)
Feleipe Franks signed with the Atlanta Falcons as an undrafted free agent in May 2021. Initially serving as the third-string quarterback behind Matt Ryan and Josh Rosen, he made his NFL debut in Week 11 of the 2021 season. His first pass was intercepted, but the experience marked his entry into professional football.
In 2022, Franks began transitioning to the tight end position, with the Falcons planning to utilize him in a hybrid role. This position change highlights his versatility and adaptability on the field. Despite being waived/injured in August 2023 and placed on injured reserve, he re-signed with the Falcons in 2025, continuing his professional career with the team.
Driving Style and Strengths
Franks is known for his athleticism and versatility, having played both quarterback and tight end professionally. His size and mobility allow him to be effective in multiple roles, and his experience as a quarterback provides him with a strong understanding of offensive schemes and defensive coverages.
Notable Events and Milestones
One of Franks’ signature moments was the 63-yard Hail Mary pass for a game-winning touchdown against Tennessee in 2017. His leadership in breaking Arkansas’ SEC losing streak in 2020 also stands out as a career milestone.
Feleipe Franks Career Wins
College Highlights
Franks contributed to significant wins at both Florida and Arkansas. At Florida, he helped the Gators achieve a 10–3 record in 2018, including a Peach Bowl victory. At Arkansas, he led the Razorbacks to a notable upset over a ranked Mississippi State team in 2020.
Professional Wins and Performances
While Franks has primarily served in backup and developmental roles in the NFL, his transition to tight end and continued presence on the Falcons’ roster demonstrate his ongoing contributions to the team.
Feleipe Franks Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Feleipe Franks’ older brother, Jordan Franks, is a former NFL tight end, indicating a family connection to professional football.
Personal Life
Details about Franks’ personal life, including marital status and children, are not publicly available.
2025 Season Performance
In 2025, Franks re-signed with the Atlanta Falcons, continuing his role as a tight end. His versatility and experience are expected to contribute to the Falcons’ offensive schemes. The season outlook includes potential increased playing time and further development in his hybrid role, supported by the Falcons’ coaching staff.