DITR – Henri’ Bell

Henri’ Bell is a 6’4″, 315 pound, class of 2024 Offensive Lineman who plays for the Madison Prep Academy Chargers in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Henri’ is a very versatile offensive lineman, as he plays all over the line, predominantly at center and tackle. Henri’ is known for being a player who plays with quickness and urgency, and one who displays great footwork on the line. He was rewarded for his play with a spot on the 2nd-team all district team, per his Hudl profile.

Henri’ was a participant at our recent Gridiron Elite Camp in Rayville, Louisiana, where he tested well, running a 5.50 40-yard dash, a 5.37 shuttle time, and jumping 6’4″ in the long jump, all of which were some of the best numbers from someone his size at the camp. Henri’ was also one of the top performers in the lineman drills and this has earned him an invite to our Gridiron Football All-American camp.

Henri’ currently does not hold any offers, but has garnered interest from three schools: Southeastern Louisiana, Grambling State, and Houston Baptist University. Off the field, Henri’ holds a 3.1 GPA.

I recently had the chance to interview Henri:

Why and at what age did you start playing football?

“The age I started playing football was 6 years old, and the reason I started playing was because my dad’s best friend’s brother saw my size and asked if I wanted to play football.”

Have you always played your current position, or did you play a different position growing up?

“Growing up, the first position I started playing was defensive line, and later on, I started playing both sides of the ball.”

What sets you apart from everyone else on the field?

“The thing I can say that sets me apart from everybody on the field is my voice and how I lead the team.”

What is your favorite accomplishment so far in your football career?

“My favorite accomplishment so far in my football career is getting invited to gridiron bowl game.”

What is your favorite memory playing football so far?

“My favorite memory of playing football so far is getting my first high school pancake on varsity; that was a great memory for me to keep.”

How do you balance athletics and academics?

“The way I balance athletics and academics is to finish my work early and go to tutor if needed.”

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced on the field?

“The biggest challenge I faced on the field was going against Kaylan Moses. He gave me a hard time.” 

Is there a certain player you try to model your game after?

“A player I try to model after is Trent Williams from the San Francisco 49ers.”

How do you stay physically fit outside of football?

“The way I stay physically fit outside of football is running around the street and working out in the weight room.”

What are you hoping to achieve in this upcoming season?

“The thing I’m hoping to achieve this upcoming season season is to win a state championship with my team.”

What is your end goal for your football career?

“My end goal to my football career is to be able to look back on it and say I have it everything I had. Be an inspiration to everyone who comes behind me.”

What is the most important lesson you’ve learned playing football?

“The most important lesson I learned from playing football is to not look at someone else’s success.”

How do you prepare for big games?

“The way I prepare is listening to music and watching film.”

What type of play style do you have?

“I get complimented for my footwork and how athletic I am for a guy at 315 pounds. Nobody in the state can pull around and lead like me. I’m proud of that.”

Lastly, who is the biggest role model in your life?

“The biggest role mode in my life is my dad; he showed me what hard work looks like and how to become a man.”

Henri’ Bell is the anchor and leader of the Chargers line. Last season, he recorded 34 pancakes while only allowing 4 sacks. He looks to improve and take the next step as a player during his Senior year.