Vanessa Nakate to Open Giving Black Conference 2026 With Climate Justice Keynote
1 week ago
United States John Franklin III transitioned from a high-profile collegiate football career, including a featured role in 'Last Chance U,' to playing professionally in the NFL and other leagues, and is now also recognized for his social media presence and legal actions challenging content platforms.
Featured in the first season of the hit docuseries 'Last Chance U', which documented his time at East Mississippi Community College. Later, he was involved in a lawsuit against Netflix for $30 million.
John Franklin is listed as a Social Media Creative at Fanatics Sportsbook.
John Franklin III was born on September 21, 1994, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He began his collegiate football career at Florida State, redshirting in 2013 during a BCS National Championship season and seeing limited action in 2014. Franklin then transferred to East Mississippi Community College, where his journey was documented in the first season of the Netflix series ‘Last Chance U’ in 2016. At EMCC, he recorded 733 passing yards with 7 touchdowns and 451 rushing yards with 9 touchdowns in 2015. He later played for Auburn in 2016 and Florida Atlantic in 2017, showcasing versatility at quarterback and wide receiver positions. Franklin completed his college career with statistical contributions in both passing and rushing, including 254 FBS passing yards and 659 FBS rushing yards.
Franklin transitioned to professional football as an undrafted free agent, signing with the Chicago Bears in 2018 as a defensive back. During his time with the Bears in 2018 and 2019, he was primarily on the practice squad. In 2019, he joined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, making his NFL debut as a wide receiver. He was part of the Buccaneers team that won Super Bowl LV in 2021, although he did not play during that season due to an injury. His career also included stints in the USFL with the Tampa Bay Bandits (2022) and Memphis Showboats (2023), and the CFL with the Edmonton Elks (2024).
Beyond his athletic career, John Franklin III has engaged with various media platforms. He was prominently featured in ‘Last Chance U’ during his time at East Mississippi Community College. In 2024, Franklin was involved in a lawsuit against Netflix, seeking $30 million, alleging exploitation for entertainment purposes related to his appearance in the docuseries. He has also developed a social media presence, leveraging his experiences from college and professional football. Franklin is married to Frankie Taylor and is a father.
Curious about our offerings or have inquiries? We're eager to assist!
Just complete the form, and we'll respond promptly.
