Zion Young: From Struggles to Stardom on the Field

Zion Young, a standout defensive player for the Missouri Tigers, has quickly become a key player in their lineup. Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 262 pounds, he transferred from Michigan State in January 2024 and has since become a team captain and a frequent recipient of SEC defensive lineman of the week honors. His journey to success, however, was not without its challenges. Born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, Young is a proud American who has represented his state and school with distinction. His high school career at Westlake High School was marked by both triumph and adversity. As a senior, he recorded 58 tackles and 2. 5 sacks, leading his team to the third round of the Georgia 6A playoffs. However, his freshman year was a different story. He failed all his classes and was barred from playing football, a setback that taught him the importance of academics and hard work. Young initially committed to Michigan State University, where he played from 2022 to 2023. As a freshman, he appeared in eight games, recording 21 tackles, 2. 0 tackles for loss, and 1. 0 sack. His sophomore season saw him become a full-time starter with 26 tackles, 4. 5 tackles for loss, and 1. 5 sacks across 12 games. After entering the transfer portal in December 2023, he committed to the University of Missouri in January 2024, seeking a fresh start in the SEC. Identifying as African-American, Young takes pride in his heritage and family roots. His brother, Kendall Young, plays for the Georgia Yellowjackets, and his father, Frank, was their coach. Young often speaks about the importance of his family's support in his journey. He described his family as vocal and structured, with his father being ex-military and his mother more laid back. This support system has been crucial in his development as both a player and a person. Young is also a devout Christian, and his faith plays a significant role in his life. He often credits God for his success on the field. During Missouri’s 2024 upset victory over Oklahoma, he scored a touchdown and attributed it to divine intervention. This moment highlights his belief and the values instilled in him through his upbringing in the southeastern United States.