The Baltimore Ravens have selected Missouri edge rusher Zion Young with the No. 45 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Here are the instant grades from Baltimore Beatdown’s staff:
I did not think it was possible that Zion Young, a ferocious run defender with inside-outside versatility as a power rusher, would be available when the Ravens were on the clock in the second round. And yet, there he was, and after passing on Rueben Bain, Baltimore did not hesitate to add the best edge rusher remaining. Young’s specific skillset really rounds out the Ravens’ current stable of edge defedner, and his high floor against the run will allow Trey Hendrickson and Mike Green to prioritize pass rushing. This is an A+++ pick with absolutely no alternate in mind. – Nikhil Mehta
Zion Young is a grade A move for me. The Ravens need run help off the edge and Young offers that immediately with power and ferocity. He also offers solid pass rush upside early for the Ravens, both as a guy that can slide inside for the Ravens to allow Trey Hendrickson and Mike Green to work outside, and as a guy who can develop a better pass rush plan off the edge eventually. Young is complete prospect as an edge player, he just needs more refiniment in his rush plan and more efficiency and consistency when using his hands to pair with his sheer power and relentlessness. Immediate impact for this Ravens team in all phases with the chance to develop into a double digit sack guy. – Zach Canter
The Ravens continue to hammer the trenches with this pick. After getting such little sack production last season, Baltimore’s defense needed pass rush help badly, and the combination of signing Trey Hendrickson and now drafting Zion Young should go a long way towards improvement. Young won’t be expected to shoulder a heavy load as a rookie with Hendrickson, Tavius Robinson, Mike Green ahead of him at outside linebacker. – Dustin Cox
I was almost certain Zion Young wouldn’t be there at 45, so the fact that they landed him to add to the pass rush is outstanding. Young’s pressure percentage last season is among the best in this year’s group of pass rushers, and he fits exactly into what I’d imagine Jesse Minter wants to add.
I’m going to give this pick an A as well. If they can get a center or an impact tight end at 80, they’re going to be cruising. – Kevin McNelis
