7 edge rushers the Vikings could select in the 2023 NFL Draft
By Nik Edlund
Byron Young (Tennessee)
Measurements:
- Height: 6-foot-2 | Weight: 250 pounds
2022 Stats:
- 37 tackles
- 12 tackles for a loss
- 7 sacks
Byron Young is an edge rusher whose stock appears to be on the rise the closer we get to the draft. He’s widely expected to come off the board late on Day 2 or be a very early Day 3 selection.
Young’s biggest asset is his explosive first step. He fires out of his stance and uses that momentum to get an advantage on blockers. Young is extremely athletic, and it’s clear he lives in the weight room as he’s completely shredded. He will likely be a true edge rusher in the pros, as he just doesn’t have the mass to hold up rushing from the interior.
In addition to his lack of girth, Young also will be a 25-year-old rookie. On top of that, he’s also quite raw, having played the position for just two years, so he has plenty to learn. That could also be an attractive asset because Young is far from reaching his ceiling.
Once he figure outs the nuances of the position and how to better use his hands, and masters some more moves, he could be one of the better edge rushing prospects to come out of this class.