Commanders reveal DE Chase Young's status for pivotal Week 17 game

So much for the perceived pitch count for Washington Commanders defensive end Chase Young. In his second game, Young will start Sunday against the Cleveland Browns. Commanders head coach Ron Rivera made the announcement to reporters Friday.

Young will replace James Smith-Williams, who is ruled out with a concussion.

Last week, Young made his 2022 season debut after being out for more than a year from a torn ACL and patellar tendon injury. The plan was to play him 16 snaps for his first game back.

However, Young pleaded his case and played 30 snaps against the San Francisco 49ers.

Young played well in his snaps. Pro Football Focus graded Young as Washington’s best defensive player against the 49ers. Smith-Williams was third.

Rivera wants to see Young “just go” while playing with aggression, per NBC Sports’ Pete Hailey. Rivera doesn’t want Young to play with a finesse style or try and overthinking the play.

The Commanders are playing for their postseason lives. They must win their final two games of the regular season to ensure a playoff berth. Commanders defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio would love to have his group fully intact for such a pivotal game Sunday. He will have to adjust without Smith-Williams and Young getting a heavier load.