Just today: Ohio State’s Chase Young Wins Chuck Bednarik Award as College
In a moment that solidified his place among college football’s defensive greats, Ohio State’s Chase Young has been honored with the prestigious Chuck Bednarik Award, given annually to the top defensive player in college football. The recognition marks the culmination of a dominant season that saw Young terrorize opposing offenses and elevate the Buckeyes’ defense to elite status.
Young, a junior defensive end, became the first Ohio State player ever to win the Bednarik Award, which has long been considered one of the highest individual honors for defenders at the collegiate level. With this award, he joins a legacy of past winners that includes the likes of Aaron Donald, Tyrann Mathieu, and Ndamukong Suh.
“This means everything to me,” Young said during his acceptance speech. “To be mentioned with the guys who’ve won this before — legends — it’s just a blessing. I couldn’t have done any of it without my teammates, my coaches, and the support of Buckeye Nation.”
Throughout the 2019 season, Young proved to be an unstoppable force off the edge. He racked up 16.5 sacks, the most in the nation, despite missing two games due to suspension. His explosive speed, relentless motor, and keen football instincts wreaked havoc on opposing quarterbacks and forced offenses to alter their entire game plans.
Coaches around the country took notice, as did NFL scouts. Young’s disruptive presence changed games — not just through sacks and tackles for loss, but through the attention he drew on every snap. Double teams became the norm, yet he still found ways to make an impact.
Ohio State head coach Ryan Day praised Young’s work ethic and leadership throughout the season.
“Chase is the kind of player every coach hopes to work with,” Day said. “He leads by example, he pushes his teammates to be better, and he shows up when it matters most. This award is well-deserved.”
In addition to the Bednarik, Young was also a finalist for the Heisman Trophy — a rare feat for a defensive player and a testament to just how impactful his season was. Though he didn’t win the Heisman, his presence among the finalists spoke volumes about his performance and influence on the field.
Young’s award also shines a light on the strength of Ohio State’s defensive program, which consistently produces NFL-ready talent. With his likely move to the NFL Draft approaching, his time in Columbus may be nearing its end — but his legacy is firmly intact.
“This was a dream of mine when I came to Ohio State,” Young reflected. “To win an award like this and represent this university — it’s something I’ll carry with me forever.”
As Ohio State’s Chase Young wins the Chuck Bednarik Award as college football’s top defender, his name is now etched into the history books — a fitting tribute to one of the most dominant defensive seasons in recent memory.
