Biography
David Yankey, born on January 18, 1992, is a former American football offensive lineman recognized for his significant contributions to the sport during his collegiate and professional career. He attended Stanford University, where he excelled as part of the Cardinal football team, earning multiple accolades including the Morris Trophy, awarded to the best offensive lineman in the Pac-12 Conference. Yankey's impressive performance at Stanford positioned him as one of the top offensive line prospects heading into the NFL Draft.
In the 2014 NFL Draft, Yankey was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the fifth round. Throughout his tenure with the team, he showcased versatility by playing both guard and tackle positions, contributing to the Vikings' offensive line depth. During his rookie season, he appeared in 10 games, providing critical support to a young offensive unit and helping to solidify the line's performance in critical matchups.
Yankey’s professional career extended beyond the Vikings when he signed with the San Francisco 49ers in 2016. Although his time in the NFL was marked by challenges, including roster changes and injuries, his dedication to the game and his team made him a respected figure in the league. Yankey's legacy includes his role in fostering a lineage of impactful offensive linemen emerging from Stanford and his commitment to community service initiatives during and after his playing days.