After up-and-down freshman season, Zion Young ready to contribute in big way

After an up-and-down freshman season with Michigan State, Zion Young is ready to contribute in a major way.

Zion Young is preparing to enter his sophomore season at Michigan State with something to prove. Not only is he looking to prove he is a big-time contributor for a Big Ten football team, but that he’s learned from mistakes made during his freshman season.

In the midst of his freshman campaign, Young’s promising season came to a screeching halt. After the events that took place on Oct. 29, Zion along with seven of his teammates were suspended for the remainder of the season. During the time of his suspension and uncertainty, he spent his time going to classes, working out and focusing on how he can grow from that night. Missing football didn’t matter to him in the moment, he wanted to make sure people knew he was sorry for his actions and willing to do what it takes to grow from them.

“I want to spend the rest of my career at MSU representing the university as an outstanding student-athlete,” he states is his new goal.

His freshman campaign on the field consisted of eight games, including two starts. In those eight games, he had 21 tackles, two tackles for loss, and one sack. He came to Michigan State as a composite three-star recruit, but made early impressions on the coaching staff in camp.

Registering 6-foot-5 and 230 pounds when he arrived as a freshman, Zion is now up to 265 pounds.

When asked about what he has improved on the most since last season, Zion stated, “I’m a more explosive athlete, and learning how to use my width to my advantage.” And for what he looks forward to most next season, “Doing whatever I can to be the best contributor to not only the defense, but the team.”

Young will also be wearing a new number this season, switching from 18 to No. 9. All MSU fans should look forward Zion to come into next season as a better player, and person. He is ready to prove it to us all.