Select Page

Rising Fast: Draft Day Dreams With Ruben Hyppolite II

Ruben Hyppolite II is a professional athlete and Regional Sales Director at Amerisave Mortgage Corporation, a company that provides home loan solutions across the United States. As a standout linebacker at the University of Maryland, Ruben was a four-star recruit ranked among the top 25 in his class, won three consecutive bowl games, and went on to be drafted by the Chicago Bears, where he is preparing for his rookie season. In addition to his football success, Ruben is also a business advisor specializing in public relations, marketing, and sales, and is known for his impressive speed and leadership both on and off the field. 

 

 

 

 

 

Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:

  • [0:43] How Ruben Hyppolite II adapted from sunny Florida to Maryland life  
  • [1:46] Why Ruben chose Maryland over powerhouse football schools  
  • [3:16] Ruben’s secrets to building trust with coaches and teammates  
  • [4:11] How mental preparation gives athletes the ultimate competitive edge  
  • [6:06] Ruben’s mindset for overcoming setbacks and missed opportunities  
  • [7:59] Why Ruben’s elite speed sets him apart on the field  
  • [9:16] Behind-the-scenes look at Ruben’s intense pre-draft training  
  • [11:17] The emotion of getting drafted by the Chicago Bears  
  • [12:55] Why leading by example inspires teammates to improve  
  • [15:22] How real team bonds are built outside the football facility

 

In this episode…

The journey from Florida to the NFL isn’t paved with glitz and glamour — it’s filled with tough decisions, relentless self-belief, and moments when the world seems to overlook your talent. What keeps a young athlete moving forward when invitations to the biggest showcases never come, and yet, the dream still burns bright? How does someone transform setbacks into stepping stones toward NFL stardom?

 

Ruben Hyppolite II’s story is proof that resilience and preparation can overcome any odds. After leaving his Florida home for the University of Maryland, Ruben carved out his own path — choosing to be a “big fish in a little pond” rather than follow the crowd. He credits meticulous preparation, both physical and especially mental, along with learning from mentors like Navorro Bowman, for his edge on the field. Despite not being invited to the combine or high-profile college bowls, Ruben stayed focused, making the most of every opportunity that came his way — ultimately being drafted by the Chicago Bears. His commitment to leadership, both by example and through deep relationships with teammates and coaches, has been central to his rapid adjustment to the NFL.

 

In this episode of Beyond the Game with Hal, host Hal Steinberg talks with Ruben Hyppolite II about overcoming obstacles and earning his place in professional football. Ruben shares how speed, adaptability, and humility set him apart, along with the value of authentic relationships on and off the field. Their conversation inspires dream-chasers to stay committed to growth, learn from others, and rise above setbacks.

 

Resources mentioned in this episode:

 

Quotable moments:

  • “What separates the good athletes from the great is the mental edge — they prepare differently and approach the game with a different mindset.”
  • “I wanted to be a big fish in a little pond and help recruit guys I wanted to play with.”
  • “You can always get stronger, but you can’t coach speed. Speed kills every time.”
  • “When you produce and make a name for yourself, people start watching how you do things and follow your example.”
  • “You don’t just build culture in the building — you build it outside, too, by hanging out and bonding with teammates.”

 

Action Steps:

  1. Build a support network: Surround yourself with mentors, coaches, and teammates who provide guidance and encouragement.
  2. Stick to a routine: Create consistent habits for training, study, and self-care to stay focused and adaptable.
  3. Prioritize mental prep: Use film study, visualization, and mindset work to gain a competitive edge.
  4. Lead by example: Demonstrate work ethic and integrity to set the tone for others.
  5. Build bonds beyond work: Connect outside the field to strengthen trust and team chemistry.

Powered by RISE25. RISE25 helps businesses launch and run podcasts and create done-for-you gifting programs.