9 bold predictions for the Washington Commanders 2023 season
By Dean Jones
Commanders DE Chase Young secures 10+ sacks
Chase Young's status for Week 1 remains uncertain thanks to a severe stinger suffered during the Washington Commanders' first preseason game. Looking at how things have unfolded on the injury front in recent years, it's not hard to see why concerns are so high for the defensive end before a competitive down has been played.
This is not the way Young wants to begin a critical campaign. The Commanders rightfully didn't pick up his fifth-year option after 12 games and 1.5 sacks in two seasons, meaning a parting of the ways cannot be ruled out unless the former Ohio State stud starts producing the goods.
Young should be highly motivated to silence some doubters. Getting 10-plus sacks would go a long way to achieving this and also put his representatives in a strong position when the time comes to begin contract negotiations.
Kamren Curl leads Commanders in tackles
Another player looking to get paid sooner rather than later is Kamren Curl. The gifted young safety has far outperformed his seventh-round rookie deal and if those in power had any sense, it's something they would sort out to avoid paying significantly more in the long run.
There's just no telling how much the price would go up if Curl takes another leap forward in 2023. He's already earned every cent coming his way, which is a rags-to-riches story that should inspire those unfancied prospects looking to make their way.
If the one-time Arkansas standout ends up leading the Commanders in tackles this season, one would expect a few more zeros added to his demands if a new deal isn't agreed upon beforehand. Considering how many top-level performers Washington needs to potentially extend, it might end up being an unnecessary complication.