He played college football for the Miami Hurricanes, earning first-team All-American honors in 1999.

Franks played collegiate football at the University of Miami, where he was known for his extraordinary one-handed receptions.

He redshirted in 1996, but was very productive in the 1997, 1998, and 1999 seasons, setting the University of Miami record for most touchdowns by a tight end, with 12.

On February 20, 2008, Franks was released by the Packers after an unproductive and injury-plagued 2007 season in which he was demoted to second string tight end behind Donald Lee.

[7] On March 16, 2008, Franks agreed to terms with the New York Jets on a one-year deal.