Commanders DE Chase Young's high standards
Chase Young has the biggest point imaginable to prove in 2023. His NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year campaign seems like a distant memory following a turbulent two years consisting of 12 games and 1.5 sacks, which left the Washington Commanders with no option other than to decline his fifth-year option in the hope it can provide the motivation needed.
Young's physical attributes cannot be denied. The knee brace is off at training camp and the former Ohio State phenom looks explosive, so all signs point to a genuine bounce-back campaign providing he stays clear of the injury problems that blighted a once-promising career.
When speaking to Kay Adams during her recent visit to Commanders' camp, Young stated via Pro Football Talk that he finally feels 100 percent for the first time since his ugly knee injury. He's heard all the doubters, but it's now time to put up or shut up.
"I’ve never really paid attention to the outside noise. For me, it was always when Chase is 100 percent, Chase is pretty good. I’ve always been just where my feet is at, trying to get healthy. Now that I’m healthy, let’s see what happens."Chase Young via Pro Football Talk
If the Commanders get anything like Young's production in 2020 and others along the defensive line also reach lofty expectations, this unit is going to be a real force. However, it'll cause Washington some financial headaches with Montez Sweat also looking for a new deal in 2024.