Jeff LegoldSenior writer for ESPN3 minutes to read
Why Matt Miller gives Bryce Young the edge over CJ Stroud
Matt Miller joins “SportsCenter” and analyzes some of the best NFL draft picks of 2023.
Because, well, he has a mirror.
“I’ve been that big, respectfully, my whole life,” Young said with a slight smile as he spoke Friday at the NFL Scouting Association. “I know who I am, I know what I can do. For me, it’s fair, everyone can speculate, he asks me every question. I’ll keep controlling what I can control, keep working hard… I’m confident in myself. I know what I can do” .
Young, who won’t be officially weighed or measured in the kit until Saturday, just so happens to be one of the most decorated players in this year’s draft. Heisman Award winner and 2021 SEC Offensive Player of the Year, Young threw for 79 touchdowns with 12 interceptions while going 24-3 in his two seasons as a Crimson Tide starter. In his final college game, Alabama’s Sugar Bowl victory over Kansas State in January, Young threw for 321 yards and five touchdowns.
Young is the #1 rated player by Scouts Inc. and No. 4 on Mel Kiper Jr’s last big board on ESPN.
But with his 6-foot-0, 194-pound roster listed at Alabama, Young’s size has become one of the most discussed parts of the NFL—especially after he lost time with a sprained AC joint in his right, throwing shoulder last season.
However, Young showed the same irresistible nature on Friday as he did behind center.
“Honestly, I don’t know much about what is being said about me,” Young said. “I am grateful for everyone’s opinion… I respect everyone’s opinion, but I focus on what I can control. I take the advice and direction of people I trust.”
On what would weigh him down on Saturday, Young said, “I was in the 200-pound range, and that was something that wasn’t too hard to do.”
Young said Friday he officially met the Chicago Bears and Houston Texans at the combine. The Bears have the 1st pick in the draft, and the Texans have the 2nd and 12th picks.
Each of these teams, he said, has “a great staff” and “amazing coaches”.
Young, who said he spoke to former Alabama quarterback and current New England Patriots QB Mack Jones about the pre-draft process and “how I carry myself,” was asked Friday what he thinks is the best part of his game.
“For me, I’m really proud of myself for my leadership,” said Young. “I know that’s something I have to earn at the next level. I’m really excited about trying to earn that trust and respect from this dressing room. I know that’s not my thing.”
“Student. Incurable problem solver. Amateur baconaholic. Introvert. Infuriatingly humble music fanatic.”