Chase Young and the Perennial Draft Appeal of an Elite Pass Rusher

The Ringer (04/13/2020)
  • While quarterback Joe Burrow (LSU) will probably be the #1 pick in next week’s NFL draft, most draft boards rank pass rusher Chase Young (Ohio State) as the best player.
  • In five of the last six NFL drafts, the first non-quarterback selected has been an edge pass rusher.
  • Pass rushing defensive ends are typically viewed as safe, instant-impact picks.
  • Also, a pass-rusher the consistently disrupts opposing quarterbacks is viewed as very advantageous.
  • However, a 30-year sample of top-10 picks shows defensive lineman aren’t sure-things.