The Green Bay Packers have designated defensive tackle Corey Williams as their franchise player and released tight end Bubba Franks. The transactions were announced Wednesday by Executive Vice President, General Manager and Director of Football Operations Ted Thompson.

As the Packers' franchise player, Williams has a one-year contract tender offer at the defensive tackle franchise number set by the NFL. The Packers maintain a right of first refusal to match any team's offer received by Williams.

Williams played in all 16 games, including nine starts, in 2007 and set career highs with 51 tackles and 32 solo stops. He tied his career high with seven sacks.

"Corey is a good young football player and has been a consistent performer for our team," said Thompson.

Franks spent eight seasons with Green Bay and was one of the most productive tight ends in franchise history.

Franks played in 114 games for the Packers and made 94 starts. A first-round draft choice in 2000, he totaled 256 catches and 2,300 career receiving yards. His 32 touchdown receptions are tied for 10th on the franchise's all-time list.

"We thank Bubba for everything he has given to our franchise," said Thompson. "He was a productive player on the field, a good teammate in the locker room and a fine representative of the Packers in the Green Bay community."