Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Ryan Young (Kansas St.) - 1999 NFL Draft Pick #223 by NYJ


What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Ryan Young - 1999 NFL Draft

Position: Offensive Tackle

College: Kansas State

Overview:

Ryan Young entered the 1999 NFL Draft with a solid reputation as a reliable offensive tackle. Known for his strength and technique, Young was a key component of Kansas State's offensive line, contributing to the team's success in the Big 12 Conference.

Strengths:

  • Size and Strength: Young possessed the ideal size for an NFL tackle, coupled with impressive strength that allowed him to excel in both run blocking and pass protection.
  • Footwork: His agility and quick footwork made him effective in adjusting to defensive linemen, allowing him to maintain good positioning during plays.
  • Football IQ: Demonstrated a strong understanding of defensive schemes, enabling him to make quick decisions and adjustments during games.
  • Durability: Young had a history of staying healthy throughout his college career, which is a valuable trait for any NFL prospect.

Weaknesses:

  • Technique Consistency: While he had flashes of brilliance, his technique could be inconsistent, particularly when facing elite pass rushers.
  • Experience Level: Although he played well at Kansas State, some scouts questioned whether he faced enough elite competition to transition smoothly to the NFL.
  • Injury Concerns: There were minor injury issues during his college tenure that raised concerns about his long-term durability in the league.

Projection:

Ryan Young was projected to be selected in the 2nd to 4th round of the 1999 NFL Draft. Teams looking for a reliable offensive tackle with the potential for development and immediate impact on the offensive line showed significant interest in Young.

Conclusion:

With his combination of size, strength, and football intelligence, Ryan Young was seen as a promising prospect who could develop into a valuable starter in the NFL. His performance in pre-draft workouts would ultimately be crucial in determining his final draft position.