Big Board ranking: #1
Positional ranking: #1
Overview
Position: QB
College: Alabama
Class: Junior
Age: 21
Measurables
Height: 5’10 1/8”
Weight: 204 lbs.
Arm length: 30 1/2″
Hand size: 9 3/4″
Athletic testing
40-yard dash: N/A
10-yard split: N/A
Vertical jump: N/A
Broad jump: N/A
Bench press: N/A
3-cone drill: N/A
Short shuttle: N/A
Strengths
Top-tier poise and feel for the game. A++ instincts with magician-like qualities. Sees the field and works through progressions at a high level. Plays with rare calmness. Out-breaking throws are on the money. Excellent accuracy on intermediate and downfield passes. Will throw his targets toward the sideline to create late separation. Can drop throws in the bucket versus tight coverage. Outstanding feel for where defenders are leveraged and will place the ball away from them. Exceptional anticipation to hit targets as they come out of breaks. Sees through traffic to thread passes to the open spot on the second level. Makes quick decisions on short passing concepts. Hits targets in stride to allow for yards after the catch. Very accurate on angle routes out of the backfield. Recognizes and takes open checkdowns. Throws are placed between the numbers on screens. In total command of fast-paced offensive attack. Plus velocity and fluid arm talent to make throws in a blink. Natural feel for open space and how to evade defenders. Extremely smooth getting in position to throw after moving or escaping pressure. Great elusiveness in the pocket and behind the line of scrimmage in general. Keeps his eyes downfield and delivers the ball accurately. Comfortable throwing on the move in either direction. Can drop his arm angle to make a throw. Impressive ball handling. Keeps two hands on the ball in the pocket and while scrambling. Above average speed in the open field. High-end intangibles and character.
Weaknesses
Very small overall stature. Could see him step into throws more to deliver strikes despite impressive accuracy while drifting. Will get into some trouble when the pocket is crowded. Can test tight coverage too much with defenders in position to make a play. Inconsistent throwing deep seams over the middle. Would like to see him slide earlier to protect himself. Didn’t seem to trust his pass-catchers in 2022. Struggled while playing at less than 100% in loss to LSU (2022).
NFL comparison
Deshaun Watson
Conclusion
Overall, Young is a poised, creative quarterback with tremendous accuracy, instincts, smoothness, and intelligence. The natural feel for the game and magician-like qualities should overcome any concerns about his size as the potential No. 1 overall pick.