Zion Young Draft Grade | Round 2, Pick 13 | FanVerdicts

A-

Top 13%Pick Grade

Pick Context

Market Value

Slight Value

Position

EDGE · Premium Position

Decision Grade reflects market consensus at the moment of the pick. Teams often have private information the consensus does not.

Scouting Report

Big Board Rank: #37 · Day 2 Value

Zion Young emerged as one of Missouri's most productive pass rushers after transitioning from linebacker to defensive end during his sophomore season. A former three-star recruit who developed into a legitimate NFL prospect through relentless work ethic and coaching, Young combines above-average athleticism with exceptional football IQ and technique refinement. His late-career surge included back-to-back double-digit sack seasons while showcasing versatility as both a 4-3 end and 3-4 outside linebacker. Young's motor never stops, consistently pursuing plays from backside and showing rare competitive toughness, though his physical limitations and inconsistent hand usage keep him from elite status.

Strengths

+Outstanding first-step quickness off the line of scrimmage allows him to consistently beat tackles to the corner and create separation on speed rushes.

+Exceptional motor and relentless pursuit make him a constant threat on backside plays, regularly tracking down running backs from behind on cutback runs.

+High football IQ shows in his pre-snap recognition and ability to diagnose blocking schemes, often putting himself in optimal positions before the ball is snapped.

+Effective spin move has developed into his signature rush technique, using proper timing and hip flexibility to redirect around tackles once engaged.

+Strong run defender who sets the edge consistently and shows no fear taking on tight ends and tackles in the running game.

+Versatile skill set allows him to drop into coverage occasionally, showing adequate zone awareness and the athleticism to match tight ends on short routes.

+Excellent conditioning and stamina enable him to maintain pass rush intensity throughout four quarters without noticeable drop-off.

+Natural hand fighting ability helps him disengage from blocks, though technique needs refinement at times.

+Team captain who leads by example with his preparation and work ethic, earning respect from teammates and coaches.

+Shows good bend around the edge for his size, able to dip his shoulder and maintain balance while pursuing the quarterback.

+Productive pass rusher who consistently generates pressure even when not recording sacks, creating opportunities for teammates.

+Mental toughness and competitiveness show up in clutch moments, with several game-changing plays in fourth quarter situations.

Weaknesses

-Limited pass rush repertoire relies too heavily on speed and spin moves, lacking the power moves necessary to consistently beat NFL-caliber tackles.

-Hand technique remains inconsistent with poor timing on punch placement and struggles to convert speed to power when initial rush is stopped.

-Lacks ideal length and size for NFL edge rusher, which limits his ability to disengage from longer, stronger offensive tackles.

-Can be sealed off in run defense by athletic tackles who get proper angles, occasionally losing contain on outside runs.

-Pass rush plan becomes predictable against quality competition, with limited counters when primary moves are taken away.

-Struggles against elite competition, with his most difficult games coming against Power Five offensive lines with NFL-caliber tackles.

-Needs to add functional strength to hold up against the run in NFL, as college tackles were able to drive him off the ball at times.

-Coverage skills are basic and need development if asked to play more of a hybrid role in 3-4 schemes.

NFL Comparison: Trey Hendrickson

Fan voting will be available once grades are published.

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