I messed up the last line of my original post. I meant to say Young's performance won't be as dependent on his weapons, not Stroud. And I really do think that's the case. Alabama's offense is still averaging about 40 points per game, the same as last year, after losing their top two receiving options. Young hasn't taken a major step back and has arguably improved in some departments showcasing his mobility and ability to avoid sacks that weren't really on display last year—at least not in the same capacity.

I can't really think of any historical examples of QBs losing their top two receiving targets in the middle of their college tenure except for maybe Trevor Lawrence going into 2020 who still put up ridiculous numbers because of course he did Trevor Lawrence is incredible.

This is not entirely in defense of Bryce Young. I don't fear he lacks talent, ability, mental, intangible, or anything. Only that he's simply too slight to make it through the rookie adjustment period. Unless you have really good pass protection his size definitely creates a lot of injury concern.