3 nightmare scenarios for the Washington Commanders in 2023

Commanders DE Chase Young gets hurt again

Chase Young's return to the practice field last week was extremely welcome. The defensive end opted to skip the voluntary period of OTAs, but he looked explosive as the Washington Commanders take every possible precaution in pursuit of avoiding further problems on the injury front.

Young's missed so much football over the last two seasons. While the edge presence was wearing a knee brace, it didn't seem to slow him down during his initial integration back into team activities.

There is an enormous amount at stake personally for Young in 2023. The Commanders didn't pick up his fifth-year option, which raises the urgency for the No. 2 overall selection out of Ohio State to start fulfilling his enormous pre-draft promise.

Trade rumors continue to swirl where Young is concerned. But it would be a big surprise if the Commanders shipped off the pass-rusher before he gets a legitimate opportunity to prove his health concerns are a thing of the past.

The last thing Young needs is another complication. Washington has enough on its defensive front to offset this - especially if K.J. Henry evolves into a productive performer ahead of time - but it still represents a nightmare scenario nonetheless.

Washington would also have no choice other than to move on from Young in 2024 once his contract expires. If performances aren't up to standard before then, expect a trade before the deadline.