D.C. United announced today that they have re-signed free agent fullback Sean Franklin to a multi-year deal. The veteran has appeared in 82 games for United, contributing three goals and six assists while providing solid defense up and down the right side of the field. Never a fullback that has gotten the most accolades, Franklin has quietly been one of the best fullbacks in the league, both in his time at LA Galaxy and since he has moved to D.C. United.
The 31-year-old made $256,666.67 in guaranteed compensation last year, and I would assume that he is coming back for a similar number (or a small pay increase). Experienced and talented two-way fullbacks are hard to come by in this league, and Franklin is definitely in the upper tiers. This made me slightly worried that someone else might snatch him up, and so I am glad to see that they were able to work out a deal.
Despite the very efficient deputization of Nick DeLeon in that role while Franklin was injured, he should be easily considered the starter going into preseason. DeLeon will be the jack-of-all-trades, able to perform well across the midfield and at fullback whenever he is needed, but may start the year on the bench. He will definitely spell Franklin at times, so that he does not fall apart.
What do you think of the re-signing of Sean Franklin?