The Franklin Parish Patriots, formed in 2005 after the consolidation of Winnsboro and Crowville, have steadily climbed the Louisiana high school football ladder. After reaching the quarterfinals in 2024, the team is now focused on capturing its first LHSAA state championship in 2026, a goal that has eluded the program for nearly six decades.
A New Era Under Coach Adrian Burnette
Adrian Burnette, who took the helm five years ago, brings a proven track record of development and resilience. Before arriving in Winnsboro, he honed his craft at Bastrop, where he mentored standout players such as Leonard Fournette. Under his guidance, the Patriots broke through to the 2024 quarterfinals, showcasing a no‑quit attitude that has become a hallmark of the program.
The offense revolves around a dynamic duo at running back and a versatile quarterback. Senior Trey Martin, an All‑State honoree and LSU commit, leads the backfield alongside junior DJ Neal, who has attracted multiple Division I offers. Freshman quarterback Kaiden Seals, who threw for 392 yards and seven touchdowns in 2025, also topped the team in receiving with 578 yards and seven scores, giving the Patriots a potent dual‑threat attack.
The schedule tests the Patriots early, beginning with a road game against two‑time defending D‑III nonselect champion Sterlington, followed by trips to Oak Grove and Neville, both of which are perennial contenders in their divisions. These early matchups will serve as a crucible for a team that finished the 2025 season with three losses, including a narrow defeat to Lutcher in the regionals despite being outscored by multiple touchdowns.
Team chemistry is a central theme in the locker room. Senior Martin has spoken about the importance of brotherhood, while teammate Connor Linder emphasized trust as the foundation of their success. Seals, eager to prove himself as the starting quarterback, has expressed determination to elevate the team’s performance and honor the legacy of those who came before him.
The ultimate objective is clear: bring the LHSAA trophy back to Winnsboro. With a resilient mindset, a blend of experienced leadership and youthful talent, and a challenging but promising slate of opponents, the Patriots are poised to turn their long‑standing aspirations into reality.