Undrafted Rookie Report – Selvin Young, RB

Selvin Young hopes to be this year’s Mike Bell. Photo Courtesy

The Official Denver Broncos Web Site has confirmed 5 rookie undrafted free agent signings by the Broncos, and since the confirmation it has been reported that we have signed 2 more. The first, and possibly most significant, of these signings is Texas running back Selvin Young, who will likely compete for the third string spot early in the season. He’s a smaller back with great athleticism and hands, but concerns over his durability and work ethic dropped him out of the draft entirely. Again, another risky move by the Bronocs, taking talent over intangibles.

Ht: 5-11 Wt: 207 Pos: RB Class: Senior 40-Time: 4.60 Yds: 723 TDs: 8

On Selvin Young:

Young looked poised to be the starter more than once during his career at Texas, but either he never took advantage or wasn’t healthy enough when those opportunities arose. Athletically, he fits the bill in all areas. He has nice bulk and speed for his size, just shy of 6 feet tall, and he was known to have a nice burst once he found a hole.

When running the ball, Young seemed to shy away from the big hits and wasn’t know for his physicality. His durability is probably his biggest concern. However, when he found daylight he could run to it and not be touched, something that could make him a star in the Denver running game. His instincts and vision are top notch. His average yards per run fell off a bit last year, from 4.8 ypc in 2005 to 4.3 last year. Most teams want to see improvement as the athlete moves along in the system, so this is likely one of the reasons Young wasn’t drafted last weekend.

Young is effective in the passing game, having solid hands and catching 23 balls out of the backfield last season. He is also known to be a good pass blocker, something the Broncos are always looking for at running back.

Ultimately, Young will likely make his biggest impact on the team (and his best shot to make the team) in special teams. He is a solid punt returner and kick returner, being the only player in Texas history to return one of each in a single game. I expect him to compete with Quincy Morgan and Domenik Hixon for return duties in training camp. Also look for Young to prove his mettle in the preseason, when we’ll get our first real glance to see if he could be our Mike Bell, version 2007.