Willie Young Scouting Report

It was way back in 2004 when Willie Young initially signed with North Carolina State. After a year of prep school and a year redshirting, Young did not see his first playing time with the Wolfpack until 2006. Despite seeing limited action, Young did earn five starts that season and showed that he could develop into a dominating pass rusher. The following season he proved it; tallying 16 tackles-for-loss and 24 quarterback hurries. Young even showed off his versatility and athleticism by breaking up six passes. By the time Young was an upperclassman in 2008, he was the dominating force on the defensive line. On the year he totaled 12.5 tackles-for-loss and 6.5 sacks, ranking first on the team in both categories. The numbers in 2009 were just as good. Young finished up his career with North Carolina State by tallying 8.0 sacks and 14.0 tackles-for-loss. At 6-4 and 250 pounds, Young is a big defensive end. He may not be the quickest end around, but he has the strength to blow over opposing linemen. While his speed may be a problem at times, it certainly does not mean he lacks quick feet and the intelligence to read a play and use his instincts to attack the ball. His age and experience mean he is ready for the NFL right now and a team who does not have the luxury to develop a defensive end should nab Young in the second round. 2/1 Update: Young's stock has slipped a little bit, but he is still an experienced defensive end who is ready to contribute right away. While a player like Jason Pierre-Paul is quicker and a more explosive athlete, Young should be able to step in and be a consistent defensive end from day one.