Missouri Standouts Shine at Senior Bowl, Boost NFL Draft Stock
If you’re looking for players who made the most of their Senior Bowl opportunity, Missouri had a trio who showed up and showed out in Mobile. Defensive end Zion Young, wide receiver Kevin Coleman Jr., and defensive tackle Chris McClellan each took their shot on the national stage - and made it count.
Let’s break down how each of these Mizzou alums helped their NFL Draft stock during a pivotal week in front of scouts, coaches, and execs.
Zion Young, DE - Making Money Moves
Zion Young didn’t just show up in Mobile - he dominated. Before the game even kicked off, he was already turning heads during practice with his explosive first step and ability to win off the edge. Offensive tackles struggled to contain him all week, and the tape doesn’t lie - his get-off and bend were on full display.
Then came Saturday, where Young capped off his week by being named the American team’s Player of the Game. He logged two total tackles, including a solo stop, but the box score doesn’t tell the full story. His presence was felt on nearly every snap he played, consistently creating pressure and disrupting the pocket.
Missouri defensive ends coach Brian Early summed it up best, posting on social media:
“9 made some money out there today.
Been a privilege to coach this one. Special in every way.”
Young’s loyalty to the program - sticking with Mizzou despite outside offers - speaks to his character. And now he’s reaping the rewards.
According to the latest mock draft from ESPN’s Matt Miller, Young is projected to go 25th overall to the Chicago Bears. If that holds, he’ll be Missouri’s next first-rounder - and a big-time addition to a Bears defense that could use his motor and versatility.
Kevin Coleman Jr., WR - Quiet Game, Strong Week
Coleman’s stat line from the Senior Bowl game won’t grab headlines - one catch for three yards - but that doesn’t tell the full story of his week in Mobile.
The 5-foot-11, 174-pound slot receiver showed off the traits that made him a weapon for Mizzou this past season: quick feet, sharp route-running, and the ability to separate in tight spaces. He was consistently singled out during practice for his suddenness off the line and his ability to create windows for quarterbacks.
Originally from St. Louis, Coleman transferred to Missouri from Mississippi State and made the most of his lone season in Columbia.
Now, after a solid showing in Mobile, he’s climbing draft boards. He currently sits at No. 143 on the Mock Draft Database consensus big board, which projects him as a fifth-round pick.
He may not be the flashiest name in this class, but Coleman profiles as a plug-and-play slot option for teams looking for reliability and polish in the short-to-intermediate passing game.
Chris McClellan, DT - Underrated No More
Chris McClellan might not have gotten the same pre-Senior Bowl buzz as some of his teammates, but he made sure to leave Mobile with some momentum.
The 6-foot-3⅜, 315-pound defensive tackle showed off his strength and instincts in both practice and the game itself. He recorded a pass breakup and shared a sack during Saturday’s showcase, flashing the kind of disruptive ability that can anchor a defensive interior.
Where McClellan really made his mark was during practice reps, consistently drawing praise for his bull rush and ability to eat up double teams in run defense. He’s not a finesse guy - he wins with power, leverage, and a relentless motor. Teams looking for a rotational defensive tackle with upside will have him circled.
Currently ranked No. 185 on the Mock Draft Database big board, McClellan is tracking as a sixth-round pick - but performances like this could nudge him higher.
What’s Next?
With the NFL Scouting Combine set to begin on Feb. 23 in Indianapolis, all eyes will soon shift to testing numbers and interviews. Missouri typically holds its Pro Day in February as well, giving these players another chance to impress in front of league personnel.
For Young, Coleman, and McClellan, the Senior Bowl was a crucial checkpoint - and they passed with flying colors. Now, it’s about stacking good performances and keeping the momentum rolling into draft season.
Mizzou fans, take note: your guys are making noise. And come April, don’t be surprised if you hear their names called early and often.