Zion Young

● Built like an NFL defensive end, with broad shoulders and sculpted definition ● Uses full extension to set a firm edge or create leverage (see run game reps vs. Kadyn Proctor on 2025 Alabama tape) ● Beats up blockers to separate and uses push-pull techniques to yank them off balance ● Physical swipe and chop moves to clear hands of blockers 343 Back to table of contents -- 347 of 629 -- ● Quality bull rusher who can barrel through gaps ● Good lateral quickness to bounce between gaps ● Can work back inside after selling outside arc path ● Rangy vs. the run, with long-striding speed to close space in pursuit ● Developed love for the weight room at a young age — that fire is still there ● Voted a team captain in 2025 and a vocal leader in the locker room (NFL scout: “Energy for days. … You hear him before you see him.”)

● High waisted and plays tall ● Too easily pinned or rocked off balance by angle blocks ● Inconsistent leveraging the point and can be moved by double teams ● Mediocre burst and arc speed ● Inconsistent rush plan; not overly skilled with sequencing ● Average change-of-direction twitch; late to react to mesh points ● Four offside flags in 2025, including on a crucial third down that led to an Alabama touchdown ● Arrested and charged with suspicion of DWI, speeding and failing to properly affix a license plate to his vehicle (Dec. 2025); one of seven Michigan State players suspended for final four games of 2022 season and charged with assault following a postgame altercation at Michigan — pleaded guilty to misdemeanor aggravated assault (Aug. 2023) and received probation.

A two-year starter at Missouri, Young lined up as the boundary edge defender (three-point stance) in defensive coordinator Corey Batoon’s four-man front. He showed steady on-field development each of his four years at the college level and played his best football as a senior, finishing No. 2 in the SEC in tackles for loss (16.5) and No. 3 in pressures (53). The coaches and support staff speak highly of his energy and presence in the program, although two off-field incidents will be scrutinized by NFL teams. Young is a tad rigid as a pass rusher and doesn’t have ideal cornering speed, but he is long, strong and determined with hand usage to force his way through blockers. As a run defender, his play recognition and full-extension physicality blossomed as a senior. Overall, Young doesn’t have the pass-rush quickness or diversity that will scare NFL offensive tackles, but he sets a firm edge in the run game and uses his NFL-caliber measurables and heavy hands to open pathways to the pocket. He has the floor of a quality backup and the ceiling of a starting base end for a physical NFL front.