He has taken full advantage in capitalizing off his name, image, and likeness, but it has not derailed Bryce Young’s focus.
Despite him nearing seven figures in NIL endorsements, Nick Saban and Young’s teammates do not see this unprecedented situation in college football becoming a distraction for him. John Metchie (wide receiver) and Phidarian Mathis (defensive lineman) accompanied Saban at SEC Football Media Days on Wednesday in Hoover, Ala. Both players are excited for Young’s opportunity to market himself; however, the excitement has been geared more to the sophomore’s potential this season.
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Mathis, a fifth-year senior, said Young has ‘stepped up’ and has ‘become a leader.’
A native of Pasadena, Calif., Young arrived in Alabama’s top-ranked 2020 signing class as a five-star. He was a decorative player at Mater Dei High School, but Young provided big plays in the Crimson Tide’s spring game. He finished as the Dixie Howell Most Valuable Player after totaling 333 passing yards with one touchdown.
Coach Saban spoke about him taking command of the team, but it will be interesting to see how he and Bill O’Brien (offensive coordinator) work together. According to Metchie, the junior from Canada mentioned the word “excited” multiple times in discussing how ready he is to see Young dominate in the fall.
“Bryce is coming along well in his leadership role,” Metchie said. “He had endless potential.”
Young totaled 13,250 passing yards, 152 touchdown passes, and 178 total scores during his high school career. He now takes the mantle from Mac Jones as Alabama’s first-year starting quarterback this year. The 6-foot, 194-pounder is expected to excel and continue the explosiveness of the Crimson Tide’s offense.
Alabama likes his leadership and playmaking abilities, and he is ready to work.
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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
