It sounds like we are close to Washington defensive end Chase Young’s return to action.
Washington head coach Ron Rivera met with the media Thursday and offered the following update on Young.
“For the most part, he’s had an opportunity to visit with Doc [Dr. James Andrews] today, and everything’s positive,” Rivera said. “So, it’s one of those things that we looked at it; he’s met with Doc on Sunday and wanted us to slow it down a little bit and wanted to take one more look. He had a real heavy workday on Sunday morning before the game. Then he’s had a couple of heavy work days, and Doc wanted to see him. He flew down, saw him this morning, and just waiting on his return. But preliminary, [Head Athletic Trainer] Al [Bellamy] texted me, and told me everything went great. Doc is very happy with it, and we’ll be able to start him next week.”
Great news for Young and the Commanders.
In the past, under previous regimes, Washington didn’t always handle injuries in the best way. However, the Commanders have done a terrific job with Young during his recovery. Young and the team were careful not to be “all in for Week 1” and say all the right things about his return.
Washington’s defense is playing well right now. Its third-down defense is second in the league, and there will not be as much pressure for Young to perform at a high level upon his return. The Commanders can ease Young into the lineup, giving him a gradual increase in snaps each week.
Young’s 21-day window will open next week. He could play in Week 9 against the Vikings. If the Commanders can win in Indianapolis on Sunday, they’ll be 4-4 and squarely in the mix for the NFC’s final wild-card spot once Young returns.
