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Zion Young is primed to give the Ravens' defense an element they sorely need

He will give the Ravens a versatile edge rusher.
ByEamon Cassels|
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Jul 17, 2025; Atlanta, GA, USA; Missouri Tigers defensive end Zion Young talks to the media during the SEC Media Days at Omni Atlanta Hotel. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images
Jul 17, 2025; Atlanta, GA, USA; Missouri Tigers defensive end Zion Young talks to the media during the SEC Media Days at Omni Atlanta Hotel. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images | Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images

The Baltimore Ravens transformed their defense this offseason. While bringing in defensive guru Jesse Minter and signing elite edge rusher Trey Hendrickson are two of the most discussed additions, second-round pick Zion Young should also play a sizable role in the team's success. 

Recently, Ryan Mink of BaltimoreRavens.com outlined Young's role and noted that he impressed in OTAs and minicamp. 

"Young's physicality jumped out even before he put on pads and built more excitement for what he could show during training camp. In a rotation with Trey Hendrickson, Tavius Robinson and Mike Green, Young could carve out a role as an edge-setting run stopper and power rusher (potentially even inside) who can collapse the pocket," Mink wrote.

Given that Young has impressed early on and that the Ravens could use another versatile edge rusher, it's fair to assume that he'll earn a role next season. Based on what Mink wrote, it sounds like he'll be used in multiple ways.

A versatile edge rusher is a key need for the Ravens, which could make Young a vital piece of Baltimore's success. 

Zion Young will give the Baltimore Ravens' defense a versatile edge rusher

With a (hopefully) healthy Nnamdi Madubuike and Travis Jones, the Ravens do have some rock-solid interior run defense. However, Young's ability to line up inside or out is an element the Ravens could use.  

Despite Hendrickson's greatness, his run stopping is far behind his elite pass rushing. Likewise, second-year linebacker Mike Green is far more advanced as a pass rusher than a run stopper. Tavius Robinson is the team's best example of a versatile edge rusher.

Still, it's clear that the Ravens can use an extra outside run stopper who can also be disruptive as a pass rusher, and that's exactly what Young can provide. 

Young was one of the very best run stoppers in college, and all the early buzz indicates that he is primed to make an immediate impact at the next level with some solid pass rushing chops as well. Impressively, Young recorded 16.5 tackles for loss last season while at Missouri and 6.5 sacks.

With his blend of technique, power and strength, Young is tailor-made for early NFL success, especially as a run stopper. If Young can develop further as a pass rusher, he could be a true star. 

After a disastrous season from the Ravens' defense, they are primed to bounce back. With Hendrickson being an elite pass rusher, Madubuike (presumably) back in the mix, Kyle Hamilton's overall versatility, ample depth at every position, and Minter's new look system, this could be a classic Ravens defense.

And Young can't be forgotten about when discussing the Ravens' exciting defensive outlook, especially since he fills a major need.

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