2026 NFL Scouting Report: Zion Young

Prospect Summary:

Young started out his college career at Michigan State. With the Spartans, he totaled 47 tackles and 2.5 sacks over two seasons. In 2024, Young transferred to Missouri and earned a starting spot. He recorded 42 tackles with 2.5 sacks in his debut with the Tigers. In his final season, Young was part of an excellent tandem with edge rusher Damon Wilson. Young was among the nation’s leaders in pressures while totaling 6.5 sacks, 42 tackles, two forced fumbles, and two passes batted.

In the pass rush, Young has quickness off the ball and enough speed to turn the corner. He is an impressive power rusher who uses his length and strength to bullrush blockers backward into the pocket. Young uses his length and strength to shed blocks and push defenders away. Young also has quality vision, recognition, and the ability to adjust to quarterbacks as they scramble in the pocket. Young uses his hands and feet at the same time to battle blockers. Young has a burst to close and enough speed to get around the corner on tackles. He also has good speed to power rush. For the NFL, Young could stand to improve and expand his repertoire of moves.

As a run defender, Young is strong at the point of attack with physicality, and he is skilled at setting the edge. He is strong enough to hold his ground against downhill runs coming straight at him, and shows the ability to get off blocks. He can stuff running lanes and shed to pursue outside his gap. For the NFL, Young is a quality run defender who should be an asset to his pro defense.

In the 2026 NFL Draft, Young looks like a first- or second-round pick. However, his character evaluation could cause him to slide. Young has the skill set to be a pro starter.