The Las Vegas Raiders selected Alabama defensive tackle Byron Young with the 70th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Young posted 130 total tackles, 20 tackles for loss, seven and a half sacks and one forced fumble. He was named Second-Team All-SEC last season.
The Raiders drafted Young to take on blocks and eat up space at the line of scrimmage. Controlling the line of scrimmage is a key way to win football games, something the Raiders need to improve on the defensive side of the ball.
Today, let’s take a closer look at a few of Young’s games from last season and see what kind of player the SIlver and Black are getting.
In the Crimson Tide’s game against Texas A&M, Young quickly jumped off the snap and defeated his blocker to bat down a pass at the line of scrimmage. He even flashed pass rush moves and got in the backfield.
Young lined up all across the defensive line, even coming off the edge. There was a play where Young rushed the passer, and while he didn’t get to the quarterback, he still covered an impressive amount of ground to tackle the ball carrier.
Young consistently defeated his blocks in this game to make plays on the ball. He finished the game with six tackles and a pass break up.
In the Sugar Bowl against Kansas State, Young blew through the right tackle to lay a hit on Wildcats quarterback Will Howard, leading to an errant throw that was intercepted. He continued to line up over the center, off the edge, and over the B gap.
Young has the ability to play all over the defensive line and rush the passer from multiple spots. He finished the game with two tackles.
The Raiders needed to find long-term answers on the defensive line, and they found one in the third round with Young. He was praised for his character and leadership along with his elite physical traits, increasing his value when the team drafted him.
For a team that will need to control the line of scrimmage to win games in the AFC West, adding Byron Young to the defensive line will help the Raiders do just that.
OTA Offseason workouts: June 12-15
Mandatory Minicamp: June 6-8
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