2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Orlando Henley, DB, Harding University

• Name: Orlando Henley
• Position: DB
• College: Harding University
• Height: 5’9″
• Weight: 180 lbs
• Twitter: @Oh__6
• Instagram: @orlandoohenley

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

I decided I wanted to be a football player when I was little and my dad told me he was signing me up. I remember scoring my first touchdown thinking “I actually like this”. I carried it on with me from that point on.

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

I would like to maximize my potential foremost and improve on the little things that will set me apart technique wise. I want to play professionally and become one of the top nickels/ DB’s in the league.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

My little league days from Pinevale in Georgia. Those were some of the funnest days of my football career. We were loaded with talent and a lot of those guys are now at the next level. Another memorable moment was winning a conference championship with Harding back in 2021. That was also a big highlight in my career.

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

I would say Kenny Moore. With us being almost the same size and people telling me we have the same play style, it would be nice to hear some advice and tips from him about being a smaller DB on the next level and still having a huge impact.

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

My mom inspires me the most. I saw her work two jobs at one point when I was little to make sure we were good. That definitely motivated me to go hard in whatever I do because she did the same and I know that wasn’t easy for her.

What is your favorite defensive scheme and why?

My school runs a 4-2-5 and we play man more then anything, but we also play zone. I like both zone and press and feel I can fit in any scheme with my abilities and speed.

What should we know about Orlando Henley the person?

Orlando is hardworking and he always work with a chip on his shoulder. He has the same work ethic whether the circumstances are good or bad. He is big on his faith and puts God before anything. He leads by example and is very confident in himself.

What stands out about your film the most?

My speed and physicality stands out the most. I’m not just a “specialty” DB because I don’t just cover but I also get my nose dirty and get physical. My fluidness and ability to trust my eyes and trigger to make a play is also something that I would say stands out when watching me.

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

I just always try to look at what good can come out of a certain challenge instead of always thinking about the negatives. At the end of the day it’s going to make you or break you, but you have to realize how much better you will get if you overcome that challenge. Same on the football field, you have to always think positive no matter what you are going through. One negative thought can derail everything, so you have to be positive.

What would a team get in a player like you?

They’re going to get someone who is highly motivated and driven. Someone who’s always working like he’s in last place. A team first guy who will do anything that’s asked of him.

What are your favorite things about playing football for Harding?

My favorite thing about playing for Harding would have to be the way they mold us into men beyond football. I also like how we hold ourselves to a high standard and the bar is always rising everyday. The competition is always hot there and we make each other better everyday.

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

I would say Lionel Masivi. He was another corner on my team who had a great junior year and then when his senior year came this year, they barely threw to his side. He’s really technical and you rarely see receivers get separation on him. He is a legit cover corner with size.