2020 NFL Draft: First-round mock draft where Chase Young goes No. 1
EDGE. 1. player. Pick Analysis. Ohio State. Chase Young. 56. Scouting Report
Andy Dalton is out in Cincy and rookie Ryan Finley will get a chance to start some games for the Bengals this season. Finley was a mediocre prospect out of N.C. State, but showed some promise in the preseason and is worth taking a look at. The most likely scenario is that Finley struggles to make a difference for the Bengals, but there is a scenario where he comes in and plays well.
The Bengals will likely be looking for a new franchise quarterback in the 2020 NFL Draft, and if they end up picking number one, that is likely the direction that they will go. However, in this 2020 NFL draft scenario, the Bengals see enough out of Finley over the last half of the season to give him another chance and opt to select Ohio State edge rusher Chase Young instead of a quarterback.
Passing on a quarterback may seem crazy, but Young is the kind of player who is worth the investment. Young has been dominant this season, piling up 13.5 sacks, 15.5 tackles for loss and five forced fumbles on the year. Young is the best defensive player in college football, is arguably the best prospect in the 2020 NFL draft class and is a rare defensive player who is a true Heisman Trophy contender.
Young is a big, explosive and powerful defensive end who has massive upside at the next level. He has an incredible combination of athleticism and strength that allows him to make plays in all situations. Young is explosive off of the snap and uses his length well to keep opposing offensive linemen away from his body. He is also flexible around the edge and powerful at the point of attack.
Young shows the ability to fly around the edge as a pass rusher and create pressure in the bull rush. He is also a strong run defender who sets the edge well and can create penetration and make plays in the backfield.
Make no mistake about it, Chase Young is the best defensive player in the 2020 NFL draft class and arguably the best overall prospect. The Bengals will likely be considering quarterback here, but Young could be good enough to change their minds.