Chase Young's return could turbocharge Commanders defense

Following months of anticipation, the Washington Commanders have activated star edge rusher Chase Young to their 53-man roster ahead of Sunday's game against the Falcons.

"We'll work him with the intent of — if he's ready to play he'll play, and if he's not he'll wait another week," Washington head coach Ron Rivera told reporters (h/t Yahoo! Sports).

Young, the Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2020, suffered a torn right ACL in a mid-November game last season against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. In the nine games he played in 2021, Young's statistics underwhelmed — he had 1.5 sacks, 26 tackles and two forced fumbles.

But Young's impact goes far beyond the numbers. When he is on the field, he typically earns a double team, freeing Washington's other defensive linemen. Jonathan Allen, Daron Payne and Montez Sweat could thrive once Young gets going.

In 2020, Young's rookie season, Washington allowed the fourth-fewest points and second-fewest yards in the NFL. 

Washington's upcoming schedule seems favorable for its defense, which is sixth in the NFL in yards allowed per game (308). 

After Atlanta, whose offense is 20th in the league in yards gained, Washington has two games against the Giants with a bye in between. New York's offense is 24th in yards gained.  

Washington closes the regular season with the Browns, 49ers and Cowboys.

It may take Young a few weeks to get back into a rhythm, but a fully healthy Washington defense should be scary for the rest of the NFL.