2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Henry Mitchell III, OL, Benedict College

• Name: Henry Mitchell III
• Position: OL
• College: Benedict College
• Height: 6’3”
• Weight: 320 lbs
• Twitter: @h_mitch54
• Instagram: @_h3ndawg

What made you decide you wanted to be a football player?

Growing up in Texas football is basically a religion down here. Most guys start very early & never stop. I have always enjoyed the game & loved how it brought people from different backgrounds together.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

Winning championships and playing in rivalry games. I always enjoyed playing in games where the rivalry spans decades. The best part is having fans who played on that very team decades ago, come out and support.

What are you looking to achieve as a football player going forward?

Simply put I just want to reach my potential. I’m looking forward to contributing to a team’s legacy but also creating and supporting my own.

If you could hang out with any football player past or present for a day who and why?

Deion Sanders. Growing up I always loved how he played the game & how he dominated it. Also loved his character outside of football. Even when he was not well received, he shows genuine character when he thinks no one is watching.

Which one of your family members inspires you the most and why?

Without a doubt my mother. Her determination, both mentally & physically, is unmatched. She’s spiritually gifted and connected to those she loves and cares about. I pity those who will never know her as a mother but I understand that some blessings are specific to me, with my name on it.

What is your favorite offensive scheme and why?

I really don’t have a favorite, but what I am used to is spread offense & no huddle. 

What should we know about Henry Mitchell the person?

I am very protective, observant, dependable and adaptable. I do whatever it takes to keep my loved ones & teammates safe. I’m observant because I do well at reading people. The way someone behaves when they believe they are without an audience, is their true self. That is the person I want to meet and befriend. You can depend on me to get the job done, even without the necessary tools most guys would need to succeed. Going without it not having access to most resources has made me innovative and adaptable.

What stands out about your film the most?

I’m aggressive! I love putting defenders faces in the dirt. I also can make any type of block & love getting to the second level. My form is also impressive. I stay low, keep my hands up and drive. It has been my form since childhood. 

How do you handle challenges both in life and on the football field?

Head on. Bring on the challenge! Why wait around & hope for the challenge to go away? I love proving myself to the naysayers. The only way they win, is if I quit. I put my best foot forward, give it my all and leave it for God to decide.

What would a team get in a player like you?

Someone who is hungry for it. I’ve never really been the popular option, but I’m always the option needed to win the game. Breaking down barriers, forging a path not similar to others yet resonating with guts who look like & coming up after me, is my calling. I’m ready to come in early & stay late!

What do you love the most about the game of football?

I love the bond that you create with your teammates. You meet people from all over the world & somehow you have to come to understanding & do what’s best for the team. I’ve made some brothers for life. To add, having a coach that loves you on and off the field, is important. The bond between coach and team & teammate to teammate is indescribable.

Who is the most underrated player you’ve played with and why?

Maurice “Mo” Campbell. It’s best you be on the lookout. He’ll be on a roster very soon.