Commanders News: Ron Rivera, QB target, Martin Mayhew and Chase Young

Commanders will wait for Chase Young option

Another big talking point that the media in attendance at Thursday’s press conference wanted clarification on was Chase Young‘s fifth-year option. The Washington Commanders have until next month to make a formal decision either way, which will go down to the last minute if Ron Rivera’s comments are any indication.

When probed about whether a decision has been reached, Rivera said it will be made on May 2. This is the official deadline and if the Commanders stand pat, Young will play the 2023 campaign on the final year of his rookie deal.

This is a complex riddle surrounding Young, who represented a significant investment as the No. 2 overall selection in the 2020 NFL Draft. A promising rookie campaign followed, but 12 games and 1.5 sacks over the last two years mean the jury is still out on the defensive end’s long-term aspirations.

Young looks fresh and raring to go during offseason workouts, which began this week. The former Ohio State stud also looks leaner than in previous years – something that can help from a durability standpoint next time around.

If more injury problems occur and Washington picks up the option, they’ll have an unreliable $17 million player on their hands. So no wonder Rivera and his staff are taking their time.