Vince Young QB 6'5 229 Texas Jr.
By: Robert Davis

Vince Young is one of the most explosive players in college football. He redshirted as a freshman in 2002, but has been a gamebreaker since that point. As a redshirt freshman in 2003, Young moved into the starting lineup half way through the year and led the Longhorns to a 6-1 record. He finished the season completing 60% of his passes for 1,155 yards, and six touchdowns to seven picks. Where his true presence was felt was as a rusher, where he ran for 998 yards and 11 touchdowns. He racked up every award a freshman can win, coming home with Big 12 Freshman of the Year, Newcomer of the Year, and Freshman All American honors. As a sophomore he again displayed his big play ability with 1,849 yards and 12 TD's through the air, and 1,079 yards and 14 touchdowns on the ground. Young had an amazing junior season, finishing second in the Heisman race, while leading Texas to a national title. On the year he threw for 3,036 yards while completing over 65% of his passes, to go with 26 touchdowns and 10 picks. On the ground, Young topped the 1,000 yard mark, finishing with 1,050 yards and 12 touchdowns.

There are not many explosive athletes at the QB position, but Young definitely is. He can beat you through the air or with his feet. Where he is truly special is with his legs. When plays break down, or on designed runs, Young has the speed and elusiveness to break a big run at anytime. With his athleticism, he could handle a position switch in the NFL if he has to go down that route. Young has made big strides as a passer, and is improving every game on his throwing ability. He has that special quality on the field of being able to make the big play when needed.

For all his success on the field, it really has not come as a passer. Texas has simplified the playbook and not asked him a whole lot to beat teams through the air. Although he is improving, Young has a long way to go as a passer at the next level. His mechanics are inconsistent, which leads him to still sail or underthrow his receivers. He also tries to do too much at times through the air, forcing the ball into coverage too often. Young also tends to lock on to his receivers, which is something he will really need to work on at the next level.

Young is a project, but a project that has major upside. His upside is as high as anyone in this draft, but he is also much riskier than any other top prospect. His lack of fundamentals as a passer will really hurt him. He needs to work on his mechanics and needs to learn the intricacies of the quarterback position at the next level. If someone is patient with him, they could have a big time playmaker on their hands. They have to be willing to give him time though.