Should the Texans select Zion Young?
NFL Draft Analyst Charles Davis released his first mock of the season on Thursday. One of the most intriguing picks was Missouri edge rusher Zion Young to the Houston Texans at pick 28. Their defensive line was strong in 2025, but this selection could elevate it to another level.
An edge rusher isn’t the Texans biggest need in the draft. It’s headlined by Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter, who had a combined 27 sacks in 2025. Regardless of this, bolstering the defensive line is always a smart option, and Young would fit in perfectly with this disruptive, violent group.
Young is one of the most underrated players in the draft. The 2026 defensive end group is viewed as strong; however, there are a lot of specialized prospects in it. What I mean by this is that numerous players either thrive as a pass rusher or against the run, but not both. For example, Texas Tech defensive end David Bailey is a monster while rushing the passer, but struggles while defending the run. This allows prospects who dominate both to stand out, which Young does.
First off, Young is exceptional against the run. He excels at stacking and shedding opposing linemen, which allows him to consistently be in the backfield. The former Tiger has amazing awareness and is conscious of the ball, which lets him navigate through blockers to make the play. He enters contact with violent intentions, looking to either flatten the ball carrier or get revenge on a lineman for attempting to block him.
At Young’s floor, he will be an impactful player in short-yardage situations; however, his pass-rushing upside gives him sky-high potential. He flashes the ability to become a triple threat off the edge: the ability to win with technique, speed, and power. As of now, he’s fairly limited to speed and power. He has a dominant bull rush and excellent hand usage that lets him bully linemen, plus he contains the needed flexibility to rush the edge.
As mentioned above, Young isn’t a polished pass rusher yet. He has an inconsistent first step and still hasn’t developed a variety of rushing moves, but he’s shown the willingness and ability to. A defensive line coach will see Young and fully believe he can develop him into a star.
Zion Young to the Texans might not be the most conventional selection; however, it would turn an already amazing defensive line into truly exceptional. His prowess in run defense and potential as a pass rusher make him one of the most enticing defensive ends in the draft.