Defender Sean Franklin, who started 95 regular season matches for D.C. United over four seasons, was among nine players who did not have their contract options exercised by the MLS club.
Franklin, who turns 33 in March, joined United through the re-entry draft before the 2014 season and was United’s first-choice right back for three years. A conversion to center back this year did not pan out and, amid injuries, he ended up starting 15 of 34 matches. The 10-year pro is eligible for MLS free agency.
United also declined options on two other natural outside backs — Chris Korb and 2017 first-round draft pick Chris Odoi-Atsem — which leaves the roster with two experienced players at the wide defensive positions: left back Taylor Kemp and right back Nick DeLeon, a former midfielder.