2020 NFL Draft Scouting Report
Chase Young, DE, Ohio State Buckeyes
Career Snapshot
Two-year starter who earned First Team All-America honors, led the nation with 16.5 sacks and made 46 tackles (21 for loss), forced six fumbles and broke up three passes as a junior in 2019. Named Second Team All-Big Ten and made 33 tackles (14.5 for loss) with 9.5 sacks and five pass breakups as a sophomore. Suspended two games for a violation of NCAA rules in 2019 as a result of a loan he took from a family friend who was an agent.
Positives
Game-impacting defensive end with huge upside. Fires off the snap with a tremendous first step and plays with balance and body control. Impossible to knock off his feet. Nicely redirects to the action, immediately alters his angle of attack and displays speed to every area of the field.
Effectively uses his hands to protect himself, displays a variety of moves to get off blocks, and quickly gets out into space to make the play. Easily bends off the edge, shows an explosive closing burst and can flatten his angle of pursuit and chase from the backside. Gives effort against the run and flashes the ability to split double-team blocks.
Negatives
Was a nonfactor late in the 2019 season, including the semifinal playoff game against Clemson. Lacks bulk and struggles to get off blocks once engaged at the point. Can be slow to regain his balance off the initial hit. May struggle to defend the run at the next level.
Analysis
Young is an explosive athlete who showed terrific development as a pass rusher the past two years. He offers rare quickness and explosiveness and the ability to make plays in every direction of the field if focused on the task at hand, Young should develop into a complete player as he physically matures and adds strength to his frame.