How two defensive linemen named Byron Young could be selected in NFL Draft
In 2021, the Jets drafted Michael Carter. Forty-seven picks later, they drafted Michael Carter.
Yes, there were two prospects named Michael Carter in the same draft. Both were drafted the same day, and both came from ACC schools. One was a running back, the other a cornerback. That made the picks more recognizable for Jets fans.
A similar scenario could play out in this year’s draft. There are two defenders from the same conference with the same name and one could be chosen alongside the other in April.
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The Sporting News has the story of Byron Young squared.
Are There Two Byron Youngs In The 2023 NFL Draft?
There are two prospects named Byron Young in the 2023 NFL Draft. The similarities go beyond their names. Both are defensemen, both played in the SEC, and both played in the 2023 Senior Bowl.
Tennessee defensive end Byron Young told AL.com that he first became aware there was another Byron Young early in his college career when Alabama fans started tweeting him congratulations.
“What are the odds of us both playing the D line in the SEC at the same time?” Jung said.
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Alabama’s Byron Young also spoke to AL.com, calling his Tennessee counterpart “a great guy” and revealing they trained together for three weeks before the Senior Bowl.
The Tennessee defensive end said he told coaches he could be called “BY,” while the Alabama defender could be called simply Byron. Here’s hoping they don’t end up on the same NFL team and restore the confusion.
Alabama’s Byron Young
Alabama’s Byron Young has a certain distinction from Tennessee’s Byron Young thanks to his position. The Tide’s Young is primarily a run defender as a defensive tackle. He made 25 starts for the Crimson Tide and received All-SEC honors in 2022. At nearly 300 pounds, he relies on sheer strength rather than athleticism.
Young projects as a third or fourth round pick. SN’s Vinnie Iyer ranks him #68 on his Big Board of 2023 NFL Draft Prospects.
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Byron Young of Tennessee
Tennessee’s Byron Young is more of a pass rusher than a defensive end.
As a two-year-old with the Volunteers after starting his junior college career, Young recorded seven sacks and 12 tackles for losses in 2022. He had 5.5 sacks, one interception and 11.5 tackles for losses in 10 games in 2021.
SN’s Vinnie Iyer placed Young at number 78 on his big board of the 2023 NFL Draft Prospects. He’s sportier than his Alabama namesake and likely has a higher ceiling. He, too, is projecting himself as a third- or fourth-round pick.