The Washington Commanders have declined to pick up defensive end Chase Young's fifth-year option, making him eligible for free agency after the 2023 NFL season.
Despite an impressive rookie season in 2020 where he recorded 7.5 sacks, 12 quarterback hits, 10 tackles for loss, four forced fumbles, and three fumble recoveries, Young's playing time has been limited due to injuries in the past two seasons.
𝗨𝗣𝗗𝗔𝗧𝗘: The #Commanders are NOT picking up the 5th-year option in the contract of 2020 2nd overall pick DE Chase Young, per @NickiJhabvala pic.twitter.com/yE7xu2tlnQ
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) April 26, 2023
He has only played 12 games and registered 1.5 sacks during that time. Young's most recent injury was a torn ACL in November 2021, which ended his season and kept him out of action until late December.
However, Young is determined to get back to an elite level in 2023 and has already begun working out to achieve this goal. He stated that he is excited not to have to rehab his knee this offseason, which will allow him to focus on other areas of improvement.
Young is a star, and if he's finally over his injury woes, he will be a very coveted free agent next offseason.
The No. 2 overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, who was defensive rookie of the year, is now set to enter a contract year in 2023. Will it work out as well for Chase Young as Daron Payne? https://t.co/c8LFFVrWAD
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) April 26, 2023
Although the Commanders could use their franchise tag on Young if he has an impressive 2023 season, it is more likely that he will hit free agency after the season.
The Ohio State product was the No. 2 pick in the 2020 NFL draft for a reason, and there is no denying his dynamic potential.
This had been the direction it was heading… Chase Young can cash in earlier if he balls. https://t.co/SHGimyRK2W
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 26, 2023
The 2023 season will be crucial for Young to prove that he is worthy of a lucrative, long-term contract extension. Despite his recent injury woes and lack of productivity, Young's talent and potential will likely still make him a sought-after free agent in 2024 if he can return to his previous form.
ESPN's Dan Graziano even suggests that Young may be traded during the NFL Draft. Photo Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
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