Elee, 6-foot-4/220 lbs, has been committed to Ohio State Buckeyes since January. He’s rated by 247Sports as the No. 1 edge rusher in the nation and the No. 2 overall player in the 2026 recruiting class…
Zion Elee, a 6-foot-4, 220-pound edge rusher from St. Frances Academy in Baltimore, Maryland, has emerged as one of the most coveted prospects in the 2026 recruiting class. His exceptional athleticism and on-field performance have earned him the top spot among edge rushers nationally and the No. 2 overall ranking in the class, according to 247Sports.
Early Life and High School Career
Growing up in Baltimore, Elee attended St. Frances Academy, a school renowned for producing elite football talent. From a young age, he exhibited a natural aptitude for the game, quickly becoming a standout on the field. His combination of size, speed, and agility made him a formidable presence on the defensive line.
During his high school career, Elee’s performance was nothing short of remarkable. He consistently demonstrated a relentless pursuit of the quarterback, showcasing his pass-rushing prowess. His ability to disrupt offensive plays and his high motor were key factors in his team’s defensive success.
Recruitment and Commitment
Elee’s exceptional talent did not go unnoticed by college programs across the nation. He received offers from several prestigious institutions, including Georgia, Penn State, Ohio State, Alabama, and Oregon. After careful consideration, he committed to the University of Maryland in December 2024, choosing to stay close to home and play for the Terrapins.
Despite his commitment, Elee has remained a highly sought-after prospect. In early February 2025, reports indicated that Penn State was actively working to flip Elee’s commitment, highlighting the ongoing interest in his services.
Performance and Recognition
Elee’s performance at the Polynesian Bowl in January 2025 further solidified his status as a top-tier prospect. He was named a top performer by 247Sports for his efforts during the event, underscoring his ability to excel against some of the nation’s best talent.
Playing Style and Potential
Elee’s playing style is characterized by his explosive first step, quick closing burst, and exceptional reactionary athleticism. He possesses a natural feel for the position, allowing him to rack up impressive sack numbers despite a relatively limited repertoire of pass-rushing moves at this stage in his development. His lateral explosiveness enables him to quickly move gap-to-gap and chase down ball carriers from the weak side. His motor consistently runs hot, and he excels at quickly redirecting to wrap up evasive quarterbacks.
Elee’s frame and athletic profile suggest he has the potential to develop into a complete edge rusher at the collegiate level and beyond. His combination of size, speed, and agility makes him a versatile player capable of contributing in various defensive schemes.
Future Outlook
As Elee prepares to enter the collegiate ranks, his future appears exceptionally promising. His commitment to Maryland positions him to make an immediate impact for the Terrapins. However, the ongoing interest from other programs, such as Penn State, indicates that his recruitment is far from settled. Regardless of where he ultimately plays, Elee’s talent and potential are undeniable, and he is expected to be a significant contributor at the next level.
In summary, Zion Elee’s combination of size, athleticism, and on-field performance has established him as a premier prospect in the 2026 recruiting class. His journey from a standout high school player to a highly sought-after recruit reflects his dedication and potential. As he transitions to the collegiate level, all eyes will be on Elee as he continues to develop and showcase his skills on the national stage.
