2023 NFL Draft Scouting Notes: QB Bryce Young, Alabama

Bryce Young offers upside by being able to clean up some of his lower body mechanics and finish out the consistency in his lower half. I think it’s very clear that Young is a superstar budding at the next level – a phenom with incredible tools and skills. He’s a playmaker and flashes the most extraordinary anticipation and ball placement on throws out of any quarterback in this class. That being said, his body concerns are very concerning, especially with his lack of size and frame. If Young can hold up and stay healthy, he should be a very good quarterback in the NFL.

Bryce Young

QB – Alabama Crimson Tide

HT: 5115
WT: 194
Year: Super Sophomore
High School: Mater Dei (Santa Ana, CA)
Rating: 5-star (0.9994)

Projected Draft Grade: Immediate Starter

Projection: Top 5

Bryce Young is GENERATIONAL 😳 pic.twitter.com/zpiv5m2cVj
— NFL Rookie Watch (@NFLRookieWatxh) December 31, 2022

Bryce Young scouting notes

Pros:

Very good arm. Pushes the ball downfield easily with velocity. His effective range is probably 50-55 yards.
Throws a beautiful touch ball. Has great velocity adjustments. Throws a very catchable ball.
Very good release. Quick, compact, and smooth. Is very aware of his lack of size and tries to release the ball at a higher point, especially when under pressure, to get the ball over the defenders and it throws his rhythm off. Can work around defenders and throw from multiple arm slots.
Ridiculous accuracy. Uncanny accuracy at times. Throws players open with anticipation. Excellent timing thrower.
Excellent placement. Throws receivers open routinely. Even when he’s late with the throw, he makes up for it with his placement.
Positions himself well in the pocket. Pocket composure is good, holds himself up well. Takes some massive hits to get the ball off in time.
Very solid foot quickness. Moves very well.
Excellent improv quarterback. Gets to his finest work when he has to create working in the scramble drill. Throws uncanny balls and has unbelievable field vision in this area of his game.
Very intelligent quarterback who clearly understands a lot about the game. Knows how to use his eyes to manipulate defenders. Already working through full-field progressions with relative ease.

Cons:

Can throw off of his back foot, but not nearly as effective while doing this.
Has a tendency of trying to force the football off his back foot.
Has stayed healthy outside of a shoulder in 2022 that forced him to miss a game. Does offer some more serious concerns going to the next level because of his lack of size and frame.