Commanders DE Chase Young challenged
Not picking up Chase Young's fifth-year option came with obvious questions about the player's long-term future with the Washington Commanders. The defensive end hasn't performed well over the last two years - which has a lot to do with injuries - so the gauntlet has been laid down in no uncertain terms heading into a contract year.
The Commanders will have a major financial complication on their hands if Young stays healthy and takes a leap forward next season. But it's a nice problem to have and one that could even propel Washington's defense to the NFL's best along the way.
When discussing the pressure on Young's shoulders heading into the 2023 season, former wide receiver James Jones stated on FOX Sports 1's Speak via Sports Illustrated that the time is now for the No. 2 overall selection in the 2020 NFL Draft to show the world what he's truly capable of.
"You have a Pro Bowl as a rookie, and then you just went missing. We know you coming off an injury, we did not pick up your fifth-year option. It is time to go. Show the world that you are that dude. Chase Young, the pressure is on you to say that you are one of the premier pass rushers and defensive players in this league."James Jones via Sports Illustrated
Again, this is primarily dependent on whether Young can put a consistent run of games together. If the Commanders keep him fresh and firing on all cylinders, improved numbers should follow.