Im def going to check it out. Im guessing they went young to hopefully show how ruthless he becomes by the end of the series. Jack really didnt get grimey untill the last episode when he shot a warehouse full of goons in 2 mins, and emptied his clip at the main villain
What crucial for 24 is that the side/political story has to be almost as compelling to the main story. Thats why seasons 1,2,3, and 5 were probably the best of the series. I think the B storyline is where this show will either meet expectations or flop.