Will Anderson defends critics of Bryce Young, explains preparation for 2023 NFL Draft

Throughout the pre-NFL Draft process, one of the big questions has been about the size of former Alabama quarterback Bryce Young. Considered one of the top prospects in the draft, analysts have expressed concern about his height and frame as he prepares to make the jump to the next level.

Will Anderson, another top prospect who went against Young in practice, went to bat for his former teammate Tuesday morning during an appearance on ESPN’s Get Up. He disagreed with people who say Young potentially being “too small” to play in the league.

“I played with Bryce and when I first saw him, I never thought anything about his height,” Anderson said. “He controlled it really well, he controls the game really well, he controls the offense really well. He does a really great job. He’s a great guy, great player and I’m really excited for him.”

If anyone knows how Young will handle himself in the NFL, it’s Anderson. He’s defended his former teammate in the past — including at the NFL scouting combine — after the two squared off in workouts at Alabama as both became likely top picks in next week’s draft.

Although they don’t know how things will shake out in Kansas City, they’ve both talked about what could happen. That said, Anderson knows it’s out of his control, so he and Young are preparing accordingly. They’re going to let things play out however they will.

“Really, just leave it up to God,” Anderson said. “Me and Bryce were talking, we were trying to make different scenarios in our head where we might be. But ever since everything’s going on, we’re just going to leave it in God’s hands and whatever happens, happens.”

Anderson is considered one of the top defensive prospects on the board and came in at No. 3 in ESPN’s latest mock draft Tuesday morning. That would send him to the Arizona Cardinals. But he’s keeping things in perspective and not placing any expectation on when he’ll hear his name called on draft night.

He’s just looking forward to being at the draft, ready to hear his phone ring and go shake the hand of commissioner Roger Goodell.

“Really, my expectation is just waiting to get the phone call,” Anderson said. “I don’t know what spot it’s going to be at, but I know I’m going to get a phone call. I’m just blessed to be there.”