Should Bryce Young Be The First Overall Pick?

Bryce Young’s best traits are the ones you normally see among the greats at the quarterback position. If he was 6’4” there wouldn’t be much of a debate. He would be the #1 overall pick.

But Young isn’t 6’4.” He’s just a tick over 5’10” with a slight build, and that absolutely must be factored into the risk-reward equation when considering drafting him. It’s not a show-stopper, but it has to be accounted for in the decision.

Playing Style

Young’s approach to the game makes him a unique player. Quarterbacks around his height generally rely on their legs a ton. Their ability to contribute to the rushing attack with designed runs and frequent scrambling yardage is a major component of who they are (think Kyler Murray and a younger Russell Wilson).

The 2021 Heisman Trophy Winner isn’t exactly that type of player, though.

Young is athletic and can evade pressure with the best of them. He can scramble for yards when needed and occasionally break off a big run. But you’re not likely to see him rely on his legs or become a factor in the designed running game.

Instead, he leans mostly on his ability to succeed from the pocket. Despite his size, he is able to do so effectively because he plays the position with intelligence and savvy. And that should ultimately outweigh any of the risks that come with his game.

Ball Placement

Let’s start with Young’s strengths. While he doesn’t have a powerful arm, he can make most of the necessary throws. More importantly, he can put the ball wherever he wants to. He doesn’t need a big window or a ton of separation to complete passes:

Young has a willingness to throw the ball into tight windows, but he’s not careless. Because of his accuracy and ability to throw with timing, he is able to consistently complete passes and move the chains. That’s a style of play that can succeed against any coverage and in any situation: