Chase Young - Commanders DE
There was finally some good news regarding Chase Young, who's missed a lot of preseason time after suffering a severe stinger in the Washington Commanders' first preseason game against the Cleveland Browns. However, all signs point to the defensive end being fit and raring to go this Sunday in front of a sold-out FedEx Field.
Young has more pressure on his shoulders than almost anyone within the Commanders. There aren't many around the league staring the generational draft bust tag in the face, but that's exactly what will befall the Ohio State product if he cannot raise his influence this season.
The Commanders were correct to adopt a wait-and-see approach by declining his fifth-year option. Young looked explosive at camp before suffering his latest setback, but better it happened now than when the real action was taking place.
This could go either way for Young. The talent is there for all to see; staying healthy is the biggest problem.
That'll be the biggest stumbling block for Young. Putting a consistent run of games together should see the numbers start trending up, it's whether they go high enough to warrant a mammoth contract extension that remains the most significant talking point.
Washington also needs to pay Montez Sweat next spring or before. He is more productive and dependable, so a situation could emerge where the Commanders need to choose between the two when push comes to shove.