Sep 20, 2026; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; New Orleans Saints running back Alvin Kamara (41) is tackled by Baltimore Ravens linebacker Zion Young (9) in the second half at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Sabau-Imagn Images

Zion Young Is Earning A Bigger Role

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Wesley Dixon | Last updated Oct 13, 2026 3:45 PM ET

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The Ravens have a crowded rotation at linebacker and along the edge. Players such as Trey Hendrickson, Mike Green, Tavius Robinson and Teddye Buchanan all deserve snaps for one reason or another. Another player beginning to force his way into more playing time is Zion Young. The rookie’s snap share has increased every week, according to NFL Savant , and that trend does not appear accidental. Jesse Minter recently praised Young’s development, saying that he has “really come on” over the last few games.

Why Young Is On The Field

Against Atlanta, Young showed why Baltimore may trust him against the run. With 4:07 remaining in the first quarter, Bijan Robinson took the handoff and tried to cut left in search of a lane. Young was aligned on the opposite side, but he was able to shed tight end Charlie Woerner, run across the line, and help bring Robinson down after a three-yard gain. Other Ravens defenders assisted on the tackle, but Young still deserves credit for his pursuit speed and motor on the play.

Young has already been used more frequently against the run than as a pass rusher. According to Pro Football Focus, he has logged 62 run-defense snaps compared with 44 pass-rush snaps. That distinction could allow Young to maintain a role even once Trey Hendrickson returns from injury.

Hendrickson will command plenty of snaps because of his ability to pressure quarterbacks, but Young does not have to compete with him for the same role. Using the rookie more frequently on early downs and in likely rushing situations could continue his development while allowing Baltimore to take advantage of one of his early strengths.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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