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Washington Commanders Waiting On Injury Clarity With Chase Young Before Making Contract Decision

Originally posted on Gridiron Heroics | By Jordan Sigler | Last updated 4/5/23

The Washington Commanders could pass on Chase Young

The number two overall pick in the 2020 draft might not have his fifth-year option picked up. The Washington Commanders drafted Chase Young with that pick, but many circumstances could keep Young from being with the team in 2024.

Young had an impressive first season with the Commanders when he earned NFL defensive rookie of the year honors. But the 23-year-old pass rusher recorded just 1.5 sacks the previous two seasons as he battled an ACL injury.

Commanders head coach Ron Rivera recently spoke about Young’s fifth-year option. According to Nicki Jhabvala of the Washington Post, Rivera said Young’s knee would determine if the team picks up the option.

“That’s the thing that will drive a big part of the conversation. As we continue to work through this and talk about it, it will be about seeing him and watching him. Again, we get started April 17, so we’ll continue to work through these things — talk to the doctors, talk to the trainers, strength and medical — and just kind of get a feel for where he is. Then we’ll be able to make a decision and we’ll go from there.”

https://twitter.com/NickiJhabvala/status/1643391418331803649

The Commanders have already invested in other pieces of the defensive line. They signed Daron Payne to a long-term deal and have Jonathan Allen’s hefty contract on the payroll. The Commanders must also consider what they want to do with Montez Sweat.

This article first appeared on Gridiron Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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