Should the Commanders be concerned about Chase Young's absence from OTAs?

Should the Washington Commanders be concerned about defensive end Chase Young's absence from voluntary OTAs over the last week?

One topic has hogged the headlines above all else surrounding the Washington Commanders and their return for the official start of OTAs. And it had absolutely nothing to do with what was transpiring on the field.

When John Keim of ESPN first reported that Chase Young wasn't in attendance, the debate among fans was fierce. Some didn't see it as that much of a deal while others were incensed that the defensive end was not among his teammates after missing so much action over the last two years.

Young is well within his right not to show up. These OTAs are voluntary and after the Commanders opted not to pick up his fifth-year option, the edge rusher is running the risk of losing future financial security if he gets hurt.

However, this has called Young's commitment into question once again. The player wants to be a leader and an alpha within the locker room, but not attending OTAs does send the wrong message in that regard.

To a certain extent, anyway.

Commanders remain confident in Chase Young

Everyone has their opinion of Young, for good or bad. He hasn't met the loftiest expectations imaginable since arriving with generational traits out of Ohio State, but Ron Rivera didn't seem too concerned despite his wish for everyone to be around immediately.

The head coach stated via Grant Gordon of NFL.com that Young fully understands why the Commanders opted to let his contract run out in 2024. Rivera also revealed his confidence in the player putting in the necessary work to silence some doubters next season.

"From what I've gotten in our text messages and conversations just, hey, he gets it. He understands, and he's gonna go out, and I really believe he's gonna come in and give us everything he's got. (Jack Del Rio) came out and said, you know, this is about production-based business and you have to produce. Guys that produce for us, we want them to be around, want them to be part of what we're doing, so that's pretty much just been the message and I believe he's adapted to it very nicely and he's working hard. I'll be excited to see him when he has to be here. So, again, he's been on top of things."

- Ron Rivera via NFL.com

If Young is in his feelings about not getting his fifth year triggered, he needs to snap out of it quickly. The fact Montez Sweat and Charles Leno Jr. also skipping OTAs has barely been mentioned is a harsh indicator of the perceived lack of confidence in the No. 2 overall selection in 2020 compared to other experienced veterans.

The next time Young will be on the practice field is set to be June 6 for Washington's mandatory minicamp. Imposing himself instantly is of critical importance, but the coaching staff should also be mindful of avoiding any further complications on the health front throughout.

Young's heard all the doubts and criticism. Whether the player can harness this negativity into positive energy and additional motivation heading into a contract year is the big question.

Something that will have big implications on the Commanders' 2023 season and Young's personal future beyond the upcoming campaign.