With the combine over, and the NFL Draft quickly approaching, Missouri edge Zion Young is hoping to hear his name called on Day 1. The former Tiger had an impressive showing at the Senior Bowl, and a solid combine as well, putting him into the round one conversation. For ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr., there's no question as to where he feels Young should fall.
During ESPN's rundown of a mock draft, Young landed at No. 25 with the Chicago Bears, which prompted Kiper Jr. to say that might even be too low for the talented edge rusher.
"When I looked at Zion Young, what led me to believe he's a first round pick, is he's a complete player," said Kiper Jr. "He plays the run so well, he plays with power, he hustles down the line, he doesn't take plays off. Zion Young to me is definitely a first rounder."
Missouri edge Zion Young has a big fan in Mel Kiper Jr.
Missouri is expected to have several players taken in this year's draft, including players like Josiah Trotter, Kevin Coleman Jr., and Chris McClellan, but none higher than Young. The edge rusher finished with 6.5 sacks this past season for Mizzou, but his real talent lies with his elite ability to shut down the run. Teams looking for a big run-stopping edge who can also notch seven or eight sacks per season will be all over Young.
Kiper Jr. currently has Young as his No. 2 edge in the draft, and at No. 19 overall in his latest mock draft. Here's what he had to say about the pick.
The Michigan State transfer had two great seasons at Missouri, making an impact both as a pass rusher and run defender. Young consistently seals off the edge. He's powerful and plays with sustained intensity, with one of the best motors among the edge rushers in the class. I see strong hands and impressive lateral quickness on the tape, too. Young crashes down the line.
The NFL Draft will kickoff on April 23rd.