Commanders News: Chase Young’s option, Jeff Bezos and roster building
By Dean Jones
Commanders provide an update on Chase Young’s option
Aside from the 2023 NFL Draft, the dilemma surrounding Chase Young is one of the most important remaining decisions awaiting the Washington Commanders this offseason. Those in power must decide whether to pick up the defensive end’s fifth-year option in the coming weeks, which comes with a significant financial commitment of around $17.45 million.
Had Young built on a promising rookie campaign, this would be a no-brainer. However, injuries and a lack of production over the last two years mean it could go either way where the No. 2 overall selection in 2020 is concerned.
There is a lot to ponder for the Commanders. When asked by Pete Hailey of NBC Sports Washington about whether Young’s questionable health history will factor into the equation, head coach Ron Rivera stated that it’s going to form a substantial part of their discussions before coming to a formal conclusion.
"“That’s the thing that will drive a big part of the conversation [about exercising his option]. So as we continue to work through this and talk about it, it’ll be about seeing him and watching him.”"
Young has some enormous pressure on his shoulders next season regardless of whether he gets his option picked up or not. If the former Ohio State star cannot meet expectations, then a scenario could emerge where the Commanders cut their losses entirely in 2024 with Montez Sweat also looking for a bumper payday.