Washington Football Team: Chase Young named a top player under 25

Notable Washington Football Team players under 25

A quality NFL roster should be made up with an appropriate mix of proven veterans, mid-level filler, original draft choices, and high-upside prospects.

The amount of effective young players on the current Washington Football Team roster, that will be under 25 by Week 1, is trending upwards.

Those players with the likeliest chance of having an impact in the 2021 season — rookies not included — are Daron Payne (24), Antonio Gibson (23), Khaleke Hudson (23), Tim Settle (23), Kamren Curl (22), and Saahdiq Charles (21).

All six players highlighted here were drafted by Washington. Four of the six were drafted in year one of the Rivera era. Only one of the six was a first-round pick. Antonio Gibson and Daron Payne probably received the most consideration of all six for a spot on Monson’s top 25 under 25 list.

After initially struggling to find his way as a rookie, Gibson rushed for 795 yards and 11 touchdowns in only 14 games. Even though he missed time due to a turf toe injury, Gibson tied for sixth all-time in total rushing touchdowns by a rookie in a single season. The dynamic running back’s three-touchdown performance in Week 12 against Dallas will always be a memorable one.

Payne has developed into a legit force as an interior defensive lineman. He finished the 2020 season with 54 combined tackles, 7.0 tackles for loss, 3.0 sacks, eight QB hits, 3 forced fumbles, 4 passes deflected, and 1 interception. This level of production was worthy of a Pro Bowl selection.

The former University of Alabama standout will only continue to get better within Jack Del Rio’s defense. His physical profile lines up with his production on the field. Payne is athletic, strong, and can stuff the run plus rush the quarterback. While the hulking defender is not on an Aaron Donald type of level as of yet, he does have the raw ability to get close if he can increase his sack numbers.

In addition to those we have discussed, look for several members of Washington’s 2021 draft class to receive consideration on future lists ranking young impactful players. Jamin Davis, Sam Cosmi, Benjamin St-Juste, and Dyami Brown are expected to show well in their rookie campaigns.

Creating a winning culture in the NFL is an extensive process. Washington is finally conducting its business in a way that is suited for success. The future of the franchise finally appears bright, thanks to the new regime’s renewed focus on collecting and developing young talent.

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