INDIANAPOLIS -- The 2023 NFL Scouting Combine’s biggest mystery is over: Bryce Young’s measurements have dropped.
The Alabama quarterback, whose size has been a matter of conjecture in the run-up to the combine, officially measured in at 5-foot-10 1/8 and 204 pounds, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported Saturday morning.
Widely expected to be one of the top quarterbacks selected, Young would be the lightest first-round passer since at least 2003, per NFL Research. Among Round 1 QBs in recent years, the closest size comps are Kyler Murray (5-10, 207 pounds), who was the first overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, and Johnny Manziel (6-0, 207 pounds), who was drafted 22nd overall in 2014.
Young has a different play style than either, though, and NFL evaluators have rated him highly while knowing he was never going to measure anywhere close to typical dimensions for the position.
On Friday, Young met with combine media and respectfully downplayed his lack of height and slighter build.
"I've been this size, respectfully, my whole life," Young said. "I know who I am. I know what I can do."
Young’s two-year résumé as Bama’s starter certainly holds up against those of the other top QB prospects in this class, winning 23 of his 27 starts, throwing for 80 touchdowns (to only 21 interceptions) and taking home the Heisman Trophy in the 2021 season. Although Young isn't throwing at the combine, NFL Network reporter Stacey Dales says the QB plans to spin it at Alabama's first pro day on March 23.
NFL Network draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah rates Young as his No. 3 overall prospect. While acknowledging that the signal-caller's "narrow frame raises concerns about his durability at the next level," Jeremiah also notes that Young "can avoid free rushers and extend plays, always keeping his eyes up to capitalize down the field with his arm" and "will take the free yards with his legs when necessary," which should reduce some of the size concerns.
When the 2023 NFL Draft rolls around in late April, we’ll find out just how much Young’s size matters -- or doesn’t matter -- in the eyes of NFL decision-makers.