Arizona Cardinals Projected To Land Zion Young In 2026 NFL Draft

TWSN writer and editor currently based in Cincinnati, Ohio, and originally from Upstate New York. Covering the NFL, NFL Draft, NBA, MLB, and Combat Sports

The 2026 NFL Draft is just less than three weeks away now, and the Arizona Cardinals have plenty of decisions to make. With their first round pick, currently there is plenty of discussion surrounding whether they should stay at third overall or trade back in the draft.

While their first round pick is a major talking point, they also hold an early pick in the second round that can land them just as impactful a player.

The Cardinals need to be looking to add talent to their edge room, and if they don’t go defense in round one, NFL Draft analyst Matt Miller projected the ideal edge rusher they could land in the second round, and that is Zion Young.

NFL Draft Analyst Matt Miller (@nfldraftscout) sees Arizona selecting edge rusher Zion Young in the second round.

“Young would be a strong consolation prize, giving Arizona a powerful defensive end to complement the speed Josh Sweat and Baron Browning provide.” pic.twitter.com/JeK2oY6wz2

— SleeperCardinals (@SleeperAZCards) April 5, 2026

TWSN Key Facts:

Team: Arizona Cardinals
2025 Record: 3-14
Event: 2026 NFL Draft

Why Would the Arizona Cardinals Draft Zion Young?

While the Cardinals have a new offensive-minded head coach in Mike LaFleur, they still need to build out the rest of the defense for the future. Walter Nolan and Darius Robinson have been good additions in the past few draft classes, but the edge room now is where the focus needs to go for the Cardinals to build out more.

Currently, they have Josh Sweat and Zaven Collins. Collins is ok, but not a top-tier talent, and they can’t just rely on Sweat to gain pressure, as he is 29 years old. The Cardinals need to get younger, and get a player who can make an immediate impact. The player that fits that mold is Zion Young.

Does Zion Young Fit With the Arizona Cardinals?

Zion Young would provide the Cardinals exactly what they need to start modifying their edge room. At roughly 6’5, 262 pounds, he brings NFL-ready size, length, and power to the position. With his ability to set the edge, collapse the pocket, and win with heavy hands rather than pure burst, Young would make his presence felt instantly.

Young’s biggest strength is his power profile. He plays with knock-back strength at contact, can drive offensive tackles backward with his bull rush, and has the frame to hold up against the run.

All of this led to Young being productive in college with 112 pressures and 14 sacks. Between his production and being just 22 years old, if he is there in the second round, the Cardinals should view him as a player to build around on the defensive side of the ball.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Zion Young Age?

Zion Young is 22 years old.

What is Zion Young College?

Zion Young played at Michigan State from 2022 to 2023, and the Missouri from 2024 to 2025.

What Were Zion Young’s Stats?

In 2025, Young had 57 pressures and eight sacks.

Arizona Cardinals Projected To Land Zion Young In 2026 NFL Draft

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