
RJ Franklin established the Foundation.
Kane Archer established the Standard.
Together, they represent the beginning of the Eugene D. Franklin Foundation MVP legacy — Maryland and Arkansas united through excellence, leadership, and football.
1st Unanimous Eugene D. Franklin Foundation MVP
In 2024 RJ Franklin became the first unanimous MVP in Eugene D. Franklin Foundation history, establishing the foundation upon which the award’s legacy would be built.
A dominant offensive lineman from South Hagerstown High School in Maryland, Franklin represented exactly what the EDF MVP Award was created to recognize: leadership, consistency, toughness, character, academic commitment, and excellence on the football field.
As the Foundation’s first unanimous selection, RJ Franklin will forever hold a unique place in EDF history.
RJ FRANKLIN — THE FOUNDATION.
The first. The precedent. The beginning of the MVP.
2nd Unanimous Eugene D. Franklin Foundation MVP
In 2025 Kane Archer became the second unanimous MVP in Foundation history, taking the standard established by the inaugural award and elevating it to another level.
The Greenwood High School quarterback built one of the most accomplished résumés in Arkansas high school football history, combining championship success, extraordinary production, efficiency, leadership, and individual honors.
With 10,518 career passing yards, 2,897 rushing yards, 191 total touchdowns, a 75.3% career completion rate, and a 38–1 varsity record as a starter, Archer established a benchmark future EDF MVP candidates will be measured against.
KANE ARCHER — THE STANDARD.
Championships. Production. Leadership. Excellence.

2024-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 unanimous winner of the Arkansas/Maryland MVP Awards, a rare distinction that reflects the overwhelming respect he earned from coaches 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!

2025-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. Kane also shares the distinction of being the 2nd Unanimous Winner of the Eugene D Franklin Foundation's MVP Honor. Kane will continue 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.
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