27 Aug 2024 501 Football Team 2024: Kayden Allen – Hot Springs

Hot Springs turned heads last fall with an impressive eight-win campaign. 

Following their best season in nearly a decade, the Trojans return to battle with a very realistic goal of a deep playoff run.

All-conference senior lineman Kayden “KD” Allen started each game his junior season and plans to be a big factor in the Trojans’ quest for its first playoff win since 2014.

“Improving our record has been on everyone’s mind in the locker room and something we believe we can achieve,” he said. “For the past two years, we haven’t been able to come out on top in a playoff game, so that would be huge for the team.”

“KD is a true leader who takes pride in being a field general,” Head Coach Darrell Burnett said. “With integrity, great character and work ethic, he does everything the right way.”

Allen’s versatility on the line has attracted the attention of college coaches. “KD can play all positions up front on the line and always wants what is best for his team,” Burnett said. “This season, we expect him to receive All-State and All-Star honors while signing a football scholarship.”

In addition to continuing his football career, Allen plans to pursue a career in finance or business administration.

“To future student-athletes, please stay in the books,” he said. 

“This has to be the most important thing if you want to go to the next level. Be a good person so people will have something good to say about you.”