Yanni Karlaftis

Yanni Karlaftis, a rising star in the NCAAF, has made a significant impact as a linebacker for the Purdue Boilermakers. Born and raised in West Lafayette, Indiana, Karlaftis has football deeply rooted in his hometown, which is evident in his dedication and performance on the field. Standing at 6 feet 3 inches and weighing 235 pounds, he brings a formidable presence to Purdue's defense. Throughout the 2024 season, Karlaftis demonstrated his defensive prowess across 12 games, with 4 starts that underscored his growing importance to the team. His stats are a testament to his versatility and hard-hitting play style. Karlaftis racked up an impressive total of 55 combined tackles, including 36 solo tackles and 19 assists, showcasing his ability to read plays and make crucial stops. Additionally, he achieved 0.5 sacks and recorded 1 quarterback hit, highlighting his potential as a pass rusher. Furthermore, his discipline and technique allowed him to amass 1 tackle for loss, totaling 2 yards lost for the opposition. Karlaftis's performance is not just limited to tackling; he also contributed on special teams with 2 assists, illustrating his all-around value to the Boilermakers. Despite his aggressive play, he maintained composure, avoiding any forced fumbles or fumble recoveries, which indicates his focused approach to securing tackles and executing plays without overextending. As a junior, Yanni Karlaftis has already shown significant growth and potential in his college career. His contributions to Purdue's defense have been invaluable, and his stats from the 2024 season highlight his development as a key player for the Boilermakers. With his blend of size, skill, and football IQ, Karlaftis is poised to continue his upward trajectory in the NCAAF.