The NFL has continued to evolve over the years in terms of the quarterback position. The era of prioritizing statuesque, big-armed quarterbacks who simply stood tall in the pocket has faded, giving way to a new philosophy that continues to reshape how teams evaluate the position.
As the game has evolved, so has the willingness to challenge traditional prototypes. That shift helped pave the way for Bryce Young, the former Alabama Crimson Tide standout, to become the first player selected in the 2023 NFL Draft, despite lacking the size once considered essential for NFL success.
Before Young entered the league, Kyler Murray held the distinction of being the shortest starting quarterback in the NFL. However, with both Murray and Young struggling to find consistent success, teams have begun shifting again, placing renewed emphasis on quarterbacks who combine height with mobility rather than leaning heavily toward smaller frames.
How Tall Is Bryce Young?
Young measured 5’10” at the NFL Combine, tying him as the shortest quarterback in the league and making him the shortest player ever selected No. 1 overall in the NFL Draft. He also checked in at 204 pounds, a notable outlier by historical standards.
Since 2003, no quarterback weighing under 207 pounds at the Combine had been taken in the first round, underscoring just how unconventional Young’s draft profile was.
Despite Young’s small stature, it has never limited his big-play ability, as he was a very successful quarterback in college, where he led the Crimson Tide offense and eventually won the Heisman Trophy.
Young delivered elite production on college football’s biggest stage, consistently showing why he was viewed as the top quarterback in his draft class. He finished second in the FBS with 4,872 passing yards and 47 touchdown throws, placing him among the nation’s most prolific passers.
Young also ranked third in passer efficiency and pass attempts, while tying for third in completions over a single season, further underscoring both his volume and efficiency at a high level of competition.
Young’s NFL Career With Panthers
Young is in the third year of his NFL career with the Carolina Panthers. In 46 games so far, he has thrown for 8,291 yards, 49 touchdowns, and 30 interceptions, while completing 61.4% of his throws.
The Panthers quarterback has also rushed for 718 yards and eight touchdowns on 136 carries, averaging 5.3 yards per carry. According to PFSN’s QB Impact Metric, Young ranked #32 among 52 eligible quarterbacks in the league this past season.
Although his numbers do not look exceptional, Young has gotten better in every season of his career. He led the Panthers to a division title this past season and is preparing for the first playoff game of his career, which will be against the Los Angeles Rams.
Moreover, the Panthers are expected to pick Young’s fifth-year option, and he could soon get a contract extension as well.
