Since the 2014 revolution at D.C. United, one of the most consistent performers has been right back Sean Franklin. Selected in Stage One of the 2013 MLS Re-Entry Draft from the LA Galaxy, Franklin seamlessly became a mainstay in United’s back line. With Franklin in the mix, United have qualified for the playoffs each of the past three seasons, even if they couldn’t get further than the Eastern Conference Semifinals.
Up until August 24th this year, Franklin was the only player that manager Ben Olsen had used at right back in MLS play in 2016. Franklin started that day’s game against the Montreal Impact, but was pulled at half time as United struggled through a stretch of three games in seven days.