Commanders News: Chase Young, Emmanuel Forbes, Eric Bieniemy and Phidarian Mathis

Commanders hope Chase Young is ready to work

Much has been made of Chase Young's absence from OTAs. This has been the primary focus despite Montez Sweat and Charles Leno Jr. also opting not to participate, which is understandable considering his current career trajectory and the fact those in power didn't pick up his fifth-year option a few short weeks ago.

While it would have been a strong message for Young to send by attending voluntary OTAs, one only has to look at the situation involving promising young tight end Armani Rogers to see where the complications could arise. Especially for someone that's been so injury prone over the last two years.

When asked about Young during his Wednesday media availability, Washington Commanders head coach Ron Rivera stated via John Keim of ESPN that the defensive end understood the team's decision regarding his contract and remains confident he can use it as motivation in a similar fashion to Daron Payne in 2022.

"He gets it, he understands. He'll come in and give everything he's got. Look what Daron [Payne] did. Guys that produce for us we want to keep them around. That's been the message. I believe [Young] has adapted to it nicely. He's working hard. I'll be excited to see him when he has to be here. You always like to have all your guys here. It's voluntary. We understand."

- Ron Rivera via ESPN

If Young isn't highly motivated to silence his doubters by this point, there's no hope. But fans are unlikely to see what shape he's in until the Commanders begin mandatory minicamp on June 6.