Former Ohio State star may get new chance to reach Pro Bowl expectations after important coaching change in the NFL
The Ohio State Buckeyes consistently produce top-tier NFL talent. We all understand that. One of their most beloved defenders from a handful of seasons ago hasn't always performed up to expectations at the NFL level, but he's getting a unique opportunity this season (and potentially beyond) after a coaching shift. Chase Young's new role with […]
The Ohio State Buckeyes consistently produce top-tier NFL talent. We all understand that. One of their most beloved defenders from a handful of seasons ago hasn't always performed up to expectations at the NFL level, but he's getting a unique opportunity this season (and potentially beyond) after a coaching shift.
Chase Young's new role with Saints
The former Ohio State Buckeyes star is garnering a new role at the pro level. After the New Orleans Saints hired defensive coordinator Brandon Staley, players knew their role may change for the unit.
For Young, his new style of play will change how he looks, performs, and develops. Keep in mind that the former top five pick is still just 26 years old. Young seems to be a key piece to the formula for success in Staley's scheme for the Saints.
Brandon Staley is still in the embryonic stages of implementing his new 3-4 defense, but the two Saints players who stand to benefit the most from it are Chase Young and Alontae Taylor. Both will be playing featured positions in the new scheme. — Jeff Duncan
With this adapted role, there will be more pressure on Young to perform. If he makes mistakes, it will be a bit more clear in a more consistent "stand-up" role for New Orleans. Young is an impressive athlete, though.
The former Buckeyes pass rusher has reportedly cut some weight, along with veteran Carl Granderson. They're playing closer to 265 pounds, which fits their skillset a bit better than the heavier weight.
Young was a consistent factor when it came to QB pressures a season ago. He was among the NFL's best in that department. The Saints want to see more of those pressures turn into sacks this year.
The Saints extended Young on a three-year contract earlier this offseason. Clearly, they believe that the swap to Staley's scheme will only increase the pass rusher's productivity. If they felt like he could not make that transition, that deal wouldn't have come to fruition.
For New Orleans, they are hoping that Young can reach a new peak of play at the pro level. If he does, we could see double-digit sacks and plenty of Pro Bowl votes for him in Staley's defense.
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