Three Washington Commanders did not report on the first day of Organized Team Activities… Charles Leno, Montez Sweat and Chase Young.
But of course, it is news when one of them was supposed to be your “generational player.”
Wasn’t it just last year that defensive tackle Daron Payne had every reason to be upset in 2022 OTAs? The Commanders had not offered him a contract extension. In addition, the Commanders then drafted defensive tackle Phidarian Mathis in round two of the 2022 draft.
How did Payne respond? He showed up for OTAs. Participated in individual workouts and team meetings, showing he was investing mentally in the program. Went out and had a great season, and the Commanders rewarded him with a hefty contract.
Both Sweat and Young are going into the final year of their original contract deal. Sweat has certainly produced more than Young, and yes, in fairness to Young, he was injured badly in the 2021 season.
Cool moment between #Steelers HC Mike Tomlin & #WFT DE Chase Young. #WFTvsPIT pic.twitter.com/DX0FIfxNcd
— Talks With T-Time Podcast (@TalkWithTTimeP1) December 8, 2020
Yet, if we are going to be honest, Young was a major disappointment prior to his injury during that 2021 season. In addition, he was also a major disappointment when he was the only player who didn’t come to OTAs in 2021.
“It’s voluntary” will, of course, be the refrain of Young’s supporters. Yet, doesn’t it remain true that it was “voluntary” for the other 87 players who did report and participate?
Is Chase Young upset he did not receive the 5th-year option? Perhaps he is; we don’t know for certain. More importantly, is this a wise way for Young to respond?
“Has the second overall choice of the 2020 draft produced enough to live up that honor? Why has Young previously chosen to not work out with the team or at the facilities? ”
Further, Why does Young continue to fancy himself a leader on this team in videos, on the sideline, vocally yelling, “Follow me!” Yet, not seem to understand leadership and does not ask the team to follow him in working out with the team staff and attending OTAs?
Is this not a huge season for Young? Does Young even realize James Smith-Williams drafted 227 spots after Young has actually been better?
Certainly, Young’s agent knows what steps Young should take to help his reputation as a leader and team player. How well is Young listening to his agent providing him advice?
The Commanders lost a week of OTAs due to an infraction last season. You don’t think all players were made aware of this? With less time together, how much more important are the limited number of workouts they have?
Lastly, if the OTA’s were required and everyone showed up, that could be a good thing. Yet, has Young matured to learn that when workouts are “voluntary” they are also more revealing?
