Name: Henry Yianakopolos
School: University of Rhode Island
Position: LB/S/Nickel
Height: 6-1
Weight: 220

Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season? 

I sought out to help our team compete for a conference championship, which unfortunately we were unable to obtain. I also set an individual goal for myself to be a better leader by holding my peers more accountable. I wanted to continue to grow the culture so that as seniors we could leave the program better than we found it. I can honestly say that the University of Rhode Island is growing and headed in the right direction!

Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?

My coaches and teammates would say that I am an extremely accountable player with high character. They would say that I play with a high motor and IQ that allows me to be versatile on the field. Most important thing is that they thought of me as a good teammate, leader, and someone who they can always come to.

Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?

It is important to me to try to gain all the leverage I can from film. With this being said, I look at specific matchups that I will have in that game in order to see their tendencies, alignments and effort. I spend a lot of time seeing what kind of motor my matchup has, this is because football is both physical and emotional. If I am able to prove myself more mentally tough than my opponent and outwork them with effort and heart, I know I will be able to win my match up that week. 

Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position? 

My versatility is what separates me from other players in the draft. Throughout my last two seasons I have played eight different positions and shown the ability to move around in different packages. My ability to study the playbook and apply it to each position makes me irreplaceable on the field. 

Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?

I am training at Grossetti Performance in Pennsylvania with other prospects for the 2023 NFL Draft. 

Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?

My strengths lie within my accountability and communication. I am a verbal leader while on the field and command the defense through my verbal and visual communication in my play. The accountability aspect of my game is where I find a competitive edge over other prospects as NFL teams should know throughout my six years at the University of Rhode Island, I was never late to a meeting or practice nor did I ever miss one (except for my brother and sister’s wedding).

Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?

I told myself at a young age that I wouldn’t stop playing football until I was told “No”. With that being said, I believe that I have much more football to play and with my versatility, accountability, high caracter, and endless motor I am someone who will push to help your culture and win games.