UCLA Football: Way-Too-Early Top 5 For 2018 NFL Draft

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Oct 8, 2016; Tempe, AZ, USA; UCLA Bruins linebacker Kenny Young (42) and wide receiver Darren Andrews (7) against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Sun Devil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

Kenny Young, LB, Sr

As a sophomore two seasons ago I was worried Young wouldn’t be able to live up to the promise that carried him to Westwood. He looked stiff in space and seemed to struggle athletically, especially since UCLA fans had been spoiled by the athletic marvel that was Myles Jack.

In his first media appearance of San Bernardino in 2016, Young said he had been working with linebackers coach Scott White on improving his flexibility and did it pay off during the season.

Young looked like a completely different guy in coverage while still playing with plenty of power. He’s able to go sideline to sideline carrying his 6’1″ 240 lbs. frame with relative ease. He doesn’t seem to be thinking as much now and is able to just play which is speeding up his game and making him more effective at every aspect of the linebacker game. He’s a capable blitzer and is instinctive against the run.

Now with Jayon Brown gone, Young will officially take over the reins at the linebacker group for the Bruins.