Darrel Young

In an era defined by relentless competition in the NFL, Darrel Young emerged as a force that completely redefined what it means to persevere at the highest level of American football. Born April 8, 1987, in Amityville, New York, he rose from undrafted underdog to a respected fullback, then logical leader off the field.

After a strong college career at Villanova University, he entered professional football in 2009 as an undrafted free agent signed by the Washington Redskins. The challenge was steep, but he embraced a position switch and carved out a role as a dependable blocker, short-yardage back, and special-teams contributor. Over six seasons in Washington, he compiled modest but valuable stats - 51 rushing attempts for 185 yards and 7 touchdowns, along with 45 receptions for 432 yards and 6 more touchdowns.

However, his impact extended far beyond numbers. Off the field he became a beacon of leadership and community dedication - earning his team's community MVP honor and receiving the prestigious Walter Payton Man of the Year Award in 2014 for his charitable work.

Retiring from play, he translated his hard-earned lessons into mentoring and player development. In 2021 he joined the front office of the Pittsburgh Steelers as director of player development, shaping young athletes' careers and lives with the same passion he brought to the gridiron.

His journey turned moments of doubt and being overlooked into fuel for maturity, community uplift, and long-term leadership. The path Darrel Young forged continues to illuminate the possibilities of bold, original thinking, proving that resilience plus heart transforms obstacles into opportunity.