MML posters (I think it was /6 Dan, maybe others) were posting filter comparisons back in 1995-ish, and the Frams came out very badly there too. Thin walls, cheap cardboard filter caps, wimpy anti-backflow valves, etc. At the time the winners (from a construction quality POV) were Napa Gold and some WIX brands. Mopar filters were rebadged Frams.
More recently I've seen Purolator Premiums listed as 'marginally acceptable' and Mobil 1 filters as excellent. I've been using the Mobil 1 filters in the Jeep, seem fine. The last (non-Mopar labeled) Frams got used in the Challenger's last engine flush before the teardown started. Seemed suitable.