Home / Sports / Ravens Draft Risky Pass Rusher Zion Young
Ravens Draft Risky Pass Rusher Zion Young
25 Apr
Summary
- Ravens selected Zion Young 45th overall in 2026 NFL Draft.
- Young faced off-field legal issues, including assault and DWI charges.
- Scouts note his physical presence but question pass-rush quickness.
In the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft, the Baltimore Ravens chose Missouri edge rusher Zion Young with the 45th overall selection.
Young, a 6-foot-5, 267-pound defender from Atlanta, displayed significant talent, earning first-team All-SEC honors last season. He recorded 6.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, and two pass deflections as a senior, finishing second in the SEC in tackles for loss with 16.5.
Coaches and scouts acknowledge Young's strong physical presence and leadership qualities. He demonstrated steady improvement throughout his college career, showcasing hand usage and a determination to get past blockers.
Concerns about Young's off-field conduct have surfaced. In 2023, he was among seven Michigan State players suspended and charged with assault following an altercation, for which he pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor. More recently, in December 2025, he was arrested on suspicion of DWI, speeding, and improper license plate display.
Despite these issues, Young ranked No. 37 on Dane Brugler's top 300 big board. Brugler noted Young's strength and determination in the run game, while acknowledging his rigidity and lack of ideal cornering speed as a pass rusher. He projects as a potential quality backup with the ceiling of a starting base end.
