Missouri edge rusher Zion Young enters the 2026 NFL Draft as one of the most intriguing defensive prospects in the class. After two productive seasons with the Tigers, Young has firmly placed himself in the early-round conversation and is expected to be the first Mizzou player off the board.
At 6’6″ and 262 pounds with 33-inch arms, Young checks nearly every physical box teams look for in an NFL edge defender. His combination of size, length, and power has made him one of the most difficult defensive linemen to handle in the SEC over the past two seasons. Young finished the 2025 season with 53 pressures, 6.5 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles while earning First Team All-SEC honors.
His performance during the Senior Bowl only strengthened his draft stock. Young bullied offensive linemen all week, while being named American Team MVP.
Scouts view Young as one of the safest edge prospects in the class. He brings a strong floor due to his run defense and physical style of play, with upside as a developing pass rusher. His closing speed allows him to make up ground quickly and finish plays within an instant.
ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. has been one of Young’s biggest supporters throughout the process.
“When I looked at Zion Young, what led me to believe he’s a first-round pick is he’s a complete player,” Kiper said. “He plays the run so well, he plays with power, he hustles down the line, he doesn’t take plays off. Zion Young to me is definitely a first-rounder.”
Young’s draft projection ranges from the late first round to early Day 2, with the Bears, Ravens, Panthers, Bills, and Bengals all viewed as potential suitors. Young told us he met with nearly every NFL team during the combine process, including several formal meetings.
He also said he plans to participate in all drills at Mizzou’s Pro Day on March 20, giving scouts a chance to see his testing numbers after opting not to take part in several drills at the NFL Combine.
For teams searching for a tone-setting defensive lineman who can anchor against the run while still generating pressure off the edge, Zion Young offers exactly the kind of profile that fits early-round draft value.