Yannis Karlaftis gives Northwestern a steady, high-IQ linebacker who can do a little bit of everything
In the 2025 season, Yannis Karlaftis played all 12 games for Northwestern, made four starts, and finished with 57 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, 0.5 sacks, and a pass breakup, ranking third on the team in tackles. He brings proven Big Ten experience, strong versatility at Mike/Will/Sam, and the kind of reliable, assignment-sound presence coaches love when the defense needs a stabilizer. The appeal is less flash than trust: productive, durable, and academically accomplished, with enough range to fit multiple roles in the middle of the defense.
