What are some pros and cons behind the Washington Commanders potentially picking up defensive end Chase Young’s fifth-year option in 2023?
The Washington Commanders have a big upcoming decision centering around Chase Young and his fifth-year option. This has already proven to be a contentious issue among fans, which is thanks in no small part to the defensive end featuring just 12 times over the last two seasons.
Young burst onto the scene en route to winning NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year. It’s not been a bed of roses since then, which leaves the Commanders in a bind regarding a player they took No. 2 overall in the 2020 NFL Draft.
According to The 33rd Team, activating Young’s option costs Washington around $17.45 million. Not chump change by any stretch, but something the Commanders could afford with $99 million available to spend in 2024.
Looking in-depth at this topic, here are three pros and cons of Washington’s upcoming dilemma with Young.
Pro No. 1
Commanders hold cards if Chase Young bounces back
Although there is a huge amount of trepidation about Chase Young’s long-term prospects thanks to almost constant injury issues over the last two years, the defensive end could also bounce back in fine style next season. The dominant traits are there, it’s staying healthy that’s become the biggest stumbling block.
If the Washington Commanders don’t pick up the option and Young has a career campaign, they’ve lost all leverage outside of using the franchise tag. Triggering the fifth year on his rookie deal keeps all options on the table based on his performance levels.
Commanders can’t guarantee Chase Young’s health
There is no denying the physical and athletic attributes Chase Young brings when firing on all cylinders. His outstanding ability to set the edge against the run is matched by exceptional pass-rushing prowess that makes him a difficult proposition to overcome.
If that was the be-all and end-all where Young was concerned, picking up his fifth-year option is a no-brainer. However, it’s not that simple for the Washington Commanders based on his current career trajectory.
With just 12 games and 1.5 sacks to his name since gaining 7.5 quarterback takedowns in 2020, the doubts are surfacing. Something that can only be quashed by Young staying healthy for a full campaign and putting up the numbers expected of a top-five selection.
Year 3 is normally the time when we see what NFL defensive linemen can truly become after fully adjusting from the college level. The trouble is, Young spent most of it on the sidelines.
That means the jury is still out, in all honesty. If Young cannot remain on the field in 2023 and become a difference-maker for the Commanders, a situation would emerge where both parties go their separate ways.
This would be disastrous considering where Young was drafted and the lofty expectations following a standout college career at Ohio State. In this scenario, owing the pass-rusher more than $17 million would be even worse.
Commanders could still get something for Chase Young
There is a middle ground here that deserves consideration. The Washington Commanders might decide to pick up his fifth-year option and leave the rest in Chase Young’s hands.
Young will be highly motivated to prove some ever-growing doubters wrong. It’s also worth remembering that Washington boasts one of the league’s most formidable defensive fronts capable of wreaking havoc on any offensive line.
This should help Young despite some hefty responsibilities on his own shoulders. But if he suffers slight injury problems and puts together a modest campaign, the Commanders have the option of trading the edge rusher to at least get something back in return.
Exactly what Young’s trade market would look like in this eventuality is anyone’s guess. Something that makes it hard to predict what the Commanders can get for an underperforming high-end draft pick with a substantial cap hit in 2024.
However, teams are always willing to bet on players with Young’s skills in the hope they can turn them around. Although getting a first-rounder is unlikely, a Day 2 pick and more could be secured if negotiations go well.
In an ideal world, Young balls out for Washington next season whether he gets his option triggered or not. Before then we’ll find out how the Commanders perceive their future with the player – which could have significant ramifications whichever way it goes.