The Baltimore Ravens came into the 2026 NFL Draft with clear intentions to fortify the defense and build a roster that reflects first-year head coach Jesse Minter’s vision.
On Day 2, they did exactly that. With the 45th overall pick, the Ravens selected Missouri edge rusher Zion Young, a physical, run-stuffing force who had many scouts buzzing about first-round talent, and Minter couldn’t hide his excitement.
Jesse Minter Is All In on Zion Young
Minter didn’t waste words when asked about Baltimore’s newest defender. The first-year Ravens head coach went deep on why Young fits exactly what Baltimore is building on defense:
“Yeah, Zion is a rugged, tough, physical player. I think he’s just scratching the surface of what he can be as a player. I think there’s a ton of upside there. Love his play style. He plays extremely hard. He plays extremely physical. He’s very powerful in the run game — when he strikes blocks, they go the other way. When people pull on him and he strikes them, it’s a train wreck. He made major improvements this year as a pass rusher. Something he took a lot of pride in this year, improving in that area. He has the ability to rush up and down the line. That’s a really versatile room that I couldn’t be more excited about.”
That’s a head coach who already knows exactly how he plans to use his new weapon.
Eric DeCosta’s Phone Blew Up After the Ravens Pick Zion Young
The excitement wasn’t limited to the coaching staff. Ravens GM Eric DeCosta revealed just how big a reaction the selection generated:
“I got a barrage of text messages. Wiggin Nathaniel is super excited.”
Young’s highlight reel is exactly what Minter’s defense craves. He plays with relentless energy, elite physicality at the point of attack, and a motor that never stops. In 2025, he recorded 16.5 tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks, earning First-Team All-SEC honors at Missouri.
The Ravens had just 30 sacks last year. Zion Young is here to change that. Paired alongside Trey Hendrickson, Mike Green, and Tavius Robinson, Baltimore now possesses one of the most versatile and frightening defensive fronts in the AFC. Minter now has every tool he needs and Young might be the most exciting one of all.
Why the Baltimore Ravens’ Draft Plan Feels Real
This is what makes the Ravens’ approach stand out. They are not trying to collect the same body type or the same skill set over and over. They want edge players who hit like wrecking balls, receivers who change coverages, and a roster that creates mismatches rather than repeats them. That is why Minter sounded so upbeat.
In his view, these additions do not just add depth, but they also sharpen the entire identity of the team.
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