ORLANDO, Fla. – Not too long ago, the idea of a youth-driven Red Bulls side seemed a foreign concept. As recent as the Hans Backe era (2010-2012), proven veterans would more often than not get the nod over a young, up and coming prospect. Academy products and SuperDraft selections alike would often give way to their more seasoned counterparts, resigned to a spot on the bench.
Suffice to say, things have changed a bit.
This past offseason, the Red Bulls focused on youth in a big way, as Sporting Director Ali Curtis signed seven homegrown academy products to the first team (Tyler Adams, Brandon Allen, Derrick Etienne, Alex Muyl, Chris Thorsheim, Mael Corboz, and Scott Thomsen).