Award Winners

RJ Franklin is a relentless competitor whose toughness, leadership, and determination defined his football career. A three-year varsity starter, RJ built a reputation as a dominant force in the trenches. Known for his grit, physical play, and relentless will to win, he consistently set the tone for his team with his work ethic and leadership.

His outstanding play on the offensive line earned him First Team All-Area honors and County Offensive First Team recognition, establishing him as one of the most respected linemen in the region. RJ’s ability to control the line of scrimmage and lead by example made him a cornerstone of his team’s success.

RJ Franklin also made history as the first and only unanimous winner of the Arkansas/Maryland MVP Awards, a rare distinction that reflects the overwhelming respect he earned from coaches, media, and voters.

Today, RJ continues his football journey at the collegiate level where he currently plays Right Tackle for Lycoming College, bringing the same toughness, discipline, and relentless drive that defined his high school career. RJ Franklin represents the true spirit of football—grit, leadership, and an unbreakable commitment to win!

Kane Archer, the standout quarterback from Greenwood High School, emerged as one of the most electrifying and accomplished playmakers in Arkansas high school football. Known for his elite arm talent, poise under pressure, and dynamic dual-threat ability, Archer consistently elevated his team and delivered in the biggest moments.

In recognition of his remarkable performance and leadership, Archer was named the 2025 winner of the Eugene D. Franklin Foundation’s River Valley MVP Award. His excellence on the field was further recognized statewide as he earned back-to-back MaxPreps and Gatorade Arkansas Football Player of the Year honors in 2024 and 2025, an achievement reserved for the most elite athletes in the state.

A true record-setting quarterback, Archer completed his high school career with over 10,000 passing yards and more than 125 touchdown passes, placing him among the most productive and accomplished quarterbacks in Arkansas high school football history. His combination of precision passing, athleticism, and football intelligence made him one of the most dangerous offensive weapons in the region.

Beyond the statistics, Archer’s leadership, competitiveness, and commitment to excellence made him the driving force behind Greenwood’s success and a respected figure among teammates, coaches, and opponents alike.

Continuing his football journey at the collegiate level, Archer signed to play Division I football at the University of Utah where he will compete as a quarterback for the Utah Utes. His remarkable high school career and impact on the game have secured his place among the outstanding athletes honored by the Eugene D. Franklin Foundation.

• Ryan Allen, Mountainburg: Throughout his career, he has accumulated 4,441 rushing yards and 61 touchdowns, along with 1,920 passing yards and 15 passing touchdowns. 
• Samuel Schlegel, Alma: 46 Receptions - 682 Yards , 5 Receiving TD's. Averaged 14.83 Yards per reception54 Caries - 311 Yards , 10 Rushing TD's. Averaged 5.6 Yards per carry 15 Total Touchdowns.
• Peyton Zimmerman, Southside: WR 91 Rec. 1250 yds 13 TD, 28 rushes for 196 yds 2 TD. Will continue his football career Harding College.

Rushing Touchdowns: 13
Rushing Yards: 1,241
Carries: 168
Yards Per Carry: 7.4
Rushing Yards Per Game: 124.1

Key 2025 Performance Highlights:
Oct. 17, 2025 vs. Rogers Heritage: Bijou set a school and 7A-West Conference record by rushing for 374 yards and 5 touchdowns in a single game!

Warren Plans on continuing his football career at McPherson College.

A dominant force in the trenches, Cody Taylor powered his team through the season with relentless grit and determination. A 4-year starter, Taylor delivered 64 pancake blocks, consistently imposing his will at the line of scrimmage and driving his team toward victory. 🏈💪

Cody plans on continuing his football journey at the University of Charlotte! 

Relentless on defense, Ethan Dunn powered Southside with intensity and leadership. Recording 105 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, 2 sacks, and 3 forced fumbles, he became the heartbeat of a defense that pushed Southside to the playoffs. Dunn was selected to the 6A-West All-Conference team.

Ethan will continue his football career at Ouachita Baptist University.

Ranked #1 in his class with a 4.38 GPA, Drew Jackson defines what it means to be a true student-athlete. A leader on the field at quarterback and a champion in the classroom, his commitment to excellence, discipline, and hard work sets him apart as a truly special player. 🏈📚🏆

Dominant in the trenches and elite in the classroom.

With a 4.3 GPA, Easton represents the true meaning of excellence—power on the field and discipline in the classroom. A complete student-athlete. 🏈🎓

Easton plans on continuing his football career at Arkansas Tech University.