Remembering Johnathan Franklin's record breaking 2012 season

Johnathan Franklin is one of the most accomplished running backs in UCLA history. He holds the all-time school record for rushing yards with 4,403 yards. Close to 700 more than second place of Gaston Green with 3,731 yards. He also owns the single season record with his 2012 senior season with 1,734 yards. Pairing together speed and strength on his way to being a second team All-American that year.

Following that 2012 season, Franklin became a fourth-round draft pick of the Green Bay Packers in the 2013 NFL Draft. Sadly, Franklin‘s career was cut short, his rookie season. After suffering, a really bad neck injury. He was off to a good start with the team averaging close to six yards per carry. Including a 13 carry 103 yard effort with a touchdown against the Cincinnati Bengals.

But 2012 will forever live in UCLA history. The most accomplished season for a UCLA running back. Franklin had nine games of over 100 rushing yards and six games of over 160 rushing yards. There was only one game all year that he was held under 40 rushing yards. Showing that he was consistent from start to finish in route to his 1,734 yard and 13 touchdown campaign. While adding 323 receiving yards and two more touchdowns.

We will never know what he could’ve done in the NFL. But Franklin was an amazing talent and we will forever have his UCLA tenure. Franklin remains a very successful human being post NFL. Working as Director of Social Justice and Professional Development for the Los Angeles Rams. He is always out in the community helping youths and addressing issues to create positivity. Perfect for a smart guy that scored a 21 on the wonderlic test out of college. Thank you, Mr. Franklinfor all that you have done and will do!