4 edge rushers the Commanders could select in the 2023 NFL Draft
By Dean Jones
Commanders could draft Byron Young
If the Washington Commanders are looking for a little extra versatility from any potential college edge presence, then Byron Young ticks the boxes in that regard. The former Tennessee star has the ability to play coming off the edge, as a three-technique rushing from the interior, or perhaps even standing up as an outside linebacker in specific situations.
Young accumulated two years of outstanding production on the Volunteers, racking up 83 tackles, 12.5 sacks, and 23.5 tackles for loss. This was backed up a sensational display at the NFL Scouting Combine, where the prospect ranked No. 3 among all defensive ends on athleticism.
More importantly where Young is concerned, it comes across on the field. His movement off the block is outstanding, he can impact proceedings with bull rush or speed around the edge, and there is enough core strength to stand his ground against the run.
There are some concerns, which isn’t uncommon for players expected to be taken in the mid-rounds. Young will be 25 years old when the season kicks off and has just two college campaigns under his belt, so the need to stamp his mark immediately is there for all to see.
The prospect could also do with adding some additional muscle mass to counteract the competition increase that the NFL brings. But from a true athletic standpoint, there’s a lot to like about Young as a core rotational piece in Washington.