This was one of the underrated moves of the off-season and the Bears are having an underrated off-season, re-signing their own guys at reasonable rates (Charles Tillman, Tim Jennings, Jay Cutler, Roberto Garza, Matt Slauson) and overhauling the defensive end position, which was much needed. They got a fair amount of cap space by cutting Julius Peppers and replaced him with an upgrade in LaMarr Houston. Now they upgraded the other defensive end position, signing Willie Young to replace Corey Wootton, and they got a great deal. They will only pay him 9 million over 3 years, a very fair value for an above average starting defensive end.
Willie Young, a 2010 7th round pick, was a valuable reserve from 2010-2012, playing 618 snaps total. His best season as a reserve was 2011. He only played 259 snaps, but if he were eligible for Pro Football Focus’ rankings, he would have ranked 14th among 4-3 defensive ends despite his very limited playing time. No one played fewer snaps and graded out as highly as he did. He wasn’t nearly as good in 2012, as he actually graded out below average, but he got a chance to start in 2013 and made the most of it, playing 801 snaps and grading out as Pro Football Focus 16th ranked 4-3 defensive ends.
He played the run well and rushed the passer well, with 4 sacks, 8 hits, and 48 quarterback hurries. Those hurries were 3rd most at the position. He’s still somewhat of a one year wonder, given that he was only a one-year starter, but he showed enough as a reserve that I’m fairly confident he can continue being a solid starter. At 9 million over 3 years and no guaranteed money after 3.95 million in the first year, this is absolutely worth the risk.
Grade: A
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