The Baltimore Ravens have long prided themselves on a defense that hits hard and plays with attitude, and their latest draft pick is set to carry that tradition into the future. With the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft, the Ravens selected Missouri edge rusher Zion Young—a player who brings a brand of physicality that defensive coordinators dream about.
Last season, the Ravens' pass rush struggled to find its rhythm, ranking 28th in pass rush win rate and allowing the second-most passing yards in the league. No edge rusher managed to notch five sacks, and defensive tackle Travis Jones actually led the team in both pressures and sacks. Enter Zion Young, a 6-foot-6, 260-pound force who projects as a three-down defender with the versatility to line up across the front. At just 22 years old, he brings a rare combination of raw power and developmental upside that could anchor Baltimore's defensive line for years to come.
Young is widely regarded as one of the most violent and physical defenders in the entire 2026 draft class. He plays with a relentless edge on every snap, using his 33-inch arms to control blockers at the point of attack. Against the run, he sets firm edges and overwhelms opponents with raw strength, while his pass-rushing arsenal features a devastating bull rush that collapses pockets and walks offensive tackles backward. He also flashes a quick swipe move to disengage and finish plays. According to Pro Football Focus, Young posted a 9.3% run stop rate and an eye-opening 25% pass rush win rate—numbers that highlight his ability to disrupt both phases of the game.
Young joins a revamped Ravens front that already includes Trey Hendrickson, Mike Green, and Tavius Robinson. With his violent playing style and high motor, he's poised to bring exactly the kind of attitude that makes Baltimore's defense feared across the league. Whether you're a die-hard Ravens fan or just love watching a defender who plays with pure aggression, Zion Young is a name you'll want to remember.
