LaDarius Henderson Bio
LaDarius Henderson is an American professional football guard who currently plays in the National Football League. Born on December 11, 2001, in Waxahachie, Texas, Henderson has quickly established himself as a promising offensive lineman following an impressive college career. He entered the NFL as a seventh-round draft pick in 2024 and has already suited up for three NFL franchises. His collegiate tenure included stops at Arizona State University and the University of Michigan, where he earned First-team All-Big Ten honors and contributed to Michigan’s national championship victory in 2023. Henderson currently represents the Indianapolis Colts organization in the NFL.
Early Life and Background
LaDarius Henderson was born and raised in Waxahachie, Texas, a city located just south of Dallas. Unlike many future football players who begin their gridiron journeys at a young age, Henderson did not play organized football until his junior year at Waxahachie High School. This late start makes his rapid ascent to Division I football and eventual NFL career particularly noteworthy, as he had to accelerate his development compared to peers who began playing years earlier.
Henderson attended Waxahachie High School, where he dedicated himself to developing his skills on the football field. His natural athleticism and dedication to the sport allowed him to quickly make up for lost time, catching the attention of college scouts despite his relatively brief high school football career. His journey from a late starter at the high school level to an NFL offensive lineman demonstrates his work ethic and physical tools.
Path to American Football
After graduating from Waxahachie High School, Henderson enrolled at Arizona State University, where he played for the Arizona State Sun Devils from 2019 to 2022. During his time in Tempe, he established himself as a reliable presence on the offensive line, eventually starting 29 games for the Sun Devils. His versatility allowed him to line up at both left guard and left tackle positions, showcasing the positional flexibility that NFL scouts value in offensive line prospects.
Henderson’s leadership qualities were recognized when he was named team captain of the 2022 Arizona State Sun Devils football team. However, his collegiate journey encountered a setback when he broke a bone in his hand during October 2022, causing him to miss the final six games of that season. This injury tested his resilience and provided motivation for his subsequent transfer decision.
Following the 2022 season, Henderson entered the NCAA transfer portal and ultimately committed to the University of Michigan in December 2022. When explaining his transfer decision, Henderson stated that he wanted to play with what he considered the best offensive line in college football. He saw Michigan as an opportunity to compete alongside elite talent and further develop his craft at the highest collegiate level.
LaDarius Henderson Career
Michigan Wolverines (2023)
Upon transferring to Michigan, Henderson immediately became a key contributor to the Wolverines’ offensive line. He appeared in 14 games during the 2023 season, earning 10 starts at left tackle. His performance throughout the season was instrumental in Michigan’s success, as the Wolverines captured the College Football Playoff national championship that year.
The Michigan coaching staff quickly integrated Henderson into their system, and his transition from the Pac-12 to the Big Ten proved seamless. His ability to protect the quarterback’s blind side at the tackle position while facing Big Ten defensive fronts demonstrated his readiness for professional football. Henderson’s consistent play throughout the season earned him recognition as a First-team All-Big Ten selection, solidifying his status as one of the top offensive linemen in the conference.
Houston Texans (2024)
Henderson’s professional career began when he was selected by the Houston Texans in the seventh round of the 2024 NFL Draft with the 249th overall pick. Being drafted in the seventh round indicated that NFL teams saw potential in him despite limited draft capital invested. The Texans viewed Henderson as a developmental prospect who could eventually contribute at the guard or tackle position at the professional level.
Cleveland Browns (2025)
During his time with the Texans organization, Henderson continued to refine his skills in preparation for an expanded NFL role. His journey through the league’s offensive line rooms provided valuable experience in different coaching philosophies and offensive schemes.
Indianapolis Colts (2025-Present)
Henderson joined the Indianapolis Colts organization in 2025, signing with the team during the season. He brings his experience from Arizona State, Michigan, and his time with previous NFL franchises to the Colts’ offensive line room. His collegiate success, including his national championship experience at Michigan, provides him with a strong foundation as he continues his professional development in Indianapolis.
Playing Style and Strengths
Henderson possesses the size and length typically associated with NFL offensive tackles, standing at 6 feet 4 inches and weighing 309 pounds. His collegiate career at both tackle and guard positions demonstrates his positional versatility, a valuable trait in professional football where injuries and roster moves frequently require players to adapt. His experience as a team captain at Arizona State indicates leadership abilities that can translate to the locker room environment. His performance in big games, including Michigan’s national championship run, suggests he can maintain composure under pressure.
Notable Achievements and Milestones
The highlight of Henderson’s career thus far remains his contribution to Michigan’s 2023 national championship team. Starting 10 games at left tackle during that season, he played a critical role in protecting the quarterback during the Wolverines’ playoff run. His First-team All-Big Ten recognition that same year validated his status as an elite collegiate offensive lineman. The combination of these achievements, along with his NFL draft selection, marks him as a player who performed on the sport’s biggest stages.
LaDarius Henderson College Career Wins
Henderson’s collegiate career included numerous victories at both Arizona State and Michigan. His most significant accomplishment came in 2023 when he helped Michigan capture the College Football Playoff national championship, defeating all opponents in his starting role at left tackle throughout the season and playoff tournament.
Michigan Wolverines Highlights
At Michigan, Henderson appeared in 14 games and started 10, contributing to a Michigan team that posted a perfect 15-0 record on its way to the national championship. His performance against some of the nation’s top defensive lines in Big Ten play showcased his ability to compete against elite competition. The Wolverines’ offensive line, featuring Henderson, was widely regarded as one of the best in college football during the 2023 season.
Other Wins and Performances
During his four seasons at Arizona State from 2019 to 2022, Henderson started 29 games at guard and tackle positions. His consistency and durability allowed him to be a reliable starter for the Sun Devils throughout his collegiate career, building the foundation that would eventually lead to his NFL opportunities.
LaDarius Henderson Family
Family Background
Limited verified information is available regarding LaDarius Henderson’s family background. He was born in Waxahachie, Texas, to parents who supported his athletic development despite his late start to organized football. His family’s encouragement proved instrumental in his rapid development during high school.
Personal Life
Following his transfer from Arizona State to Michigan, Henderson missed Michigan’s spring practice while completing class work remotely at Arizona State and taking final exams in early May 2023. This demonstrates his commitment to completing his education while pursuing athletic opportunities, reflecting the balance many college athletes maintain between academic and sporting obligations.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season represents a pivotal year in Henderson’s young NFL career as he joins the Indianapolis Colts organization. Transitioning to a new team mid-season requires adaptability and football intelligence, qualities Henderson developed during his collegiate transfer to Michigan. His journey through multiple NFL organizations provides him with diverse experiences in professional locker rooms and offensive schemes.
Henderson’s opportunity with the Colts stems from his performance abilities and the organizational need for offensive line depth. The Colts have historically invested in building strong offensive lines, making them a favorable environment for a young lineman’s development. His guard versatility could prove valuable as the Colts evaluate their roster configuration for future seasons.
Looking ahead, Henderson’s trajectory suggests continued growth as he gains more experience within NFL systems. His collegiate pedigree, including national championship pedigree and All-Conference recognition, provides a foundation for success at the professional level. The 2025 season offers him an opportunity to demonstrate his capabilities and establish himself as a permanent fixture in the Colts’ plans moving forward.