Cameron Young has been on NFL radars for a long time. I heard his name for the first time on the sideline of the 2019 Music City Bowl two hours before the game in a conversation group between Mississippi State’s defensive line coach, Deke Adams, and several NFL scouts. He was ranting about Young then! I remember him comparing Young to Fletcher Cox and saying he was the best he’d had since then. Young hasn’t disappointed NFL scouts, but his lack of pass-rushing ability will probably prevent him from going very early.

Cameron Young

DT – Mississippi State Bulldogs

HT: 6032
WT: 315
Year: Super Redshirt Junior
High School: Franklin (Meadville, MS)
Rating: 3-star (0.8355)

Projected Draft Grade: Future Starter

Projection: 5th/7th round.

Cameron Young scouting notes

Pros:

• Has some lateral quickness. Was asked to stunt a lot in the Mississippi State scheme and it’s not exactly his strength. 
• Very solid upper and lower body coordination.
• Contained double teams when he drew them, but most of the time didn’t demand them. 
• Has good hand placement, especially off of the snap, but isn’t as quick as some of the guys in this class. 
• Good strong hands. 
• Decent wrap up tackler when he can get hands on the ball carrier. 

Cons:

• Not a great athlete. Won’t contribute much as a gap defender. 
• Doesn’t handle contact well, looks like he plays too upright. 
• Young doesn’t generate a lot of power through his lower body. 
• Average first step. 
• Very average explosion, just doesn’t show it on tape. 
• I don’t see Young doing anything other containing double teams. Has no idea how to work around them. 
• Lacks the athleticism to be remotely effective in space. 
• Not a good pursuit defender. 
• Has the ability to impact the pocket at times, but isn’t going to be a heavy pass rusher. 

Check out the rest of our Senior Bowl scouting notes here.