Byron Young, an inspiring tale of perseverance and excellence, stands as a testament to hard work and determination. Rising from modest beginnings to carving his name in the National Football League (NFL), Byron Young‘s story resonates with fans of grit and determination. This article explores his life, from his upbringing to becoming an NFL rookie sensation.
Early Life and Family
Byron Young was born on March 13, 1998, in Georgetown, South Carolina. Raised in a humble household, Young’s parents, Iseman and Joanne Young, instilled in him resilience and a sense of purpose. He grew up alongside his brother, Brandon, and sister, Janice Moore, in the tight-knit community of Hemingway, South Carolina.
Life was not easy for Young as a teenager. He attended Carvers Bay High School, demonstrating early athletic talents but receiving little attention from college recruiters. Barely recruited, Young worked at Dollar General, balancing personal responsibilities while keeping alive his dream of playing professional football.
Education and College Career
Determined to pursue football, Byron Young enrolled at Georgia Military College in 2020. At the college, his abilities began to shine, showcasing his potential as one of the nation’s top junior college athletes. His relentless drive earned him a spot at the University of Tennessee, where he joined the Tennessee Volunteers football program in late 2020.
At Tennessee, Byron Young transitioned into one of the Southeastern Conference’s (SEC) most dangerous edge rushers. Initially a backup in 2021, he rose to prominence quickly by recording 46 tackles and leading the team with 5.5 sacks. His breakout season included standout performances such as a two-sack game against Kentucky and an interception during the Music City Bowl.
By 2022, Young solidified his reputation as a premier defensive talent. Starting all 13 games as a senior, he logged 42 solo tackles, seven sacks, and 12 tackles for loss, earning a First-Team All-SEC honor. His dominant performance against LSU, where he recorded 2.5 sacks, earned him SEC Defensive Lineman of the Week honors twice that season.
| Season | Games Played | Solo Tackles | Sacks | TFLs | Accolades |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 11 | 20 | 5.5 | 11.5 | All-SEC 4th Team |
| 2022 | 13 | 22 | 7.0 | 12.0 | SEC Defensive Lineman of the Week (2x) |
Transition to the NFL
The NFL took notice of Young’s athleticism, speed, and work ethic. At the 2023 NFL Combine, Byron Young impressed scouts with outstanding metrics, including a 4.43-second 40-yard dash and a 38-inch vertical jump, which are exceptional for a linebacker. His efforts led the Los Angeles Rams to draft him in the third round (77th overall).
Upon joining the Rams, Young immediately earned a starting role as an outside linebacker. His debut against the Seattle Seahawks in Week 1 set the tone for a stellar rookie season, where he logged 8 sacks, 61 total tackles, and two forced fumbles, making him one of the standout defenders among the 2023 rookie class.
Highlights of Byron Young’s Rookie Season
- Week 9 against the Green Bay Packers showcased his first multi-sack performance.
- Finished the season playing 85% of defensive team snaps over 17 games, highlighting his endurance and importance to the Rams’ defensive scheme.
- Honored with the PFWA All-Rookie Team recognition for his contributions.
| Year | Team | Games Played | Solo Tackles | Sacks | Forced Fumbles |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Los Angeles Rams | 17 | 42 | 8.0 | 2 |
| 2024 | Los Angeles Rams | 9 (to date) | 34 | 7.5 | 1 |
Personal Life and Struggles
Off the field, Byron Young continues to inspire through his resilience and optimism. Having worked as an assistant manager at Dollar General before his football career took off, he remains grounded and driven. Young frequently mentions his mother, Joanne, as his greatest inspiration, crediting her perseverance and unyielding support.
Byron Young is also passionate about giving back. Inspired by his humble beginnings, he hopes to focus on youth mentorship programs to encourage aspiring athletes facing socioeconomic challenges.
Physical Attributes and Playing Style
Standing at 6’2″ and weighing 258 pounds, Byron Young blends power, speed, and agility. His explosive first step, exceptional lateral moves, and tenacity make him a nightmare for offensive linemen. Modeled after NFL great Khalil Mack, Young’s playing style focuses on relentless pursuit and controlled aggression, ideal for disrupting backfields.
Key Physical Metrics
| Height | Weight | 40-Yard Dash | Vertical Jump |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6’2″ | 258 lbs | 4.43 seconds | 38 inches |
Accolades and Legacy
Byron Young has garnered numerous accolades in his budding career, including First-Team All-SEC honors (2022) and a selection to the PFWA All-Rookie Team (2023). His meteoric rise from underdog to NFL standout highlights his unparalleled work ethic and commitment.
Net Worth and Financial Outlook
Though early in his professional career, Byron Young‘s rookie contract with the Los Angeles Rams has significantly impacted his financial standing. Estimated to have a net worth of $3-5 million as of 2025, Young earns not only from his NFL salary but also endorsements, thanks to his marketable persona.
The Future for Byron Young
With his exceptional rookie season and continuous improvement, Byron Young is poised for a long and impactful NFL career. Fans and analysts alike expect him to become a key pillar for the Rams’ defense, mirroring the trajectory of NFL greats. Young’s combination of grit, athleticism, and humility stands as an enduring inspiration for aspiring athletes.
