Chase Young Set to Return after Neck Injury

• Sports

Washington Commanders' celebrated defensive end, Chase Young, is ready to hit the field again. Young, who missed the season opener due to a neck injury, has been given the green light to play on Sunday. His return is keenly awaited by fans and teammates alike, and it's set to add some serious firepower to the Commanders' defensive arsenal.

A Rocky Start to the Season

The road to recovery wasn't easy for Young. He suffered a stinger during the August 11 preseason opener against Cleveland, which sidelined him from any contact drills. The medical team and coaches played it safe, wanting to monitor how Young responded to contact during practice before they cleared him for a match.

And now, after displaying resilience and determination, Young is game-ready. "Obviously I want to play every game," Young said, reflecting on his short hiatus, "but it's all good. My time will come. It's time. Now it's time to go play." His spirit and enthusiasm are unmistakable.

But, while Young is back, he won't be playing the entire game. Coach Ron Rivera explained, "Obviously we have to be smart because it's his first introduction to full-speed contact." Rivera mentioned that Young will be on a snap count, although the specifics were not divulged.

A Glimmer of the "Chase of Old"

Recalling the 2020 draft, Young was the esteemed No. 2 pick. However, the subsequent seasons were a roller coaster for him. In 2021, just after returning from a severe knee injury involving a torn ACL and a ruptured patellar tendon, he managed to play only three games.

Despite the setbacks, the recent comments from Commanders defensive line coach Jeff Zgonina are promising. "His explosiveness was back. He was just playing. He was the Chase of old," Zgonina remarked. However, as the season unfolds, so does the reality of contracts.

Young's current contract with the Commanders is set to expire after this season, raising questions about his future with the team, especially after Washington decided not to pick up his fifth-year option. Yet, amidst uncertainties, one thing is crystal clear: the Washington Commanders' defensive line has showcased its prowess.

With a solid performance in Week 1, registering 8 tackles for a loss, 3 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, and 2 fumble recoveries leading to a 20-16 triumph over Arizona, the team and its fans can expect more thrilling plays in the coming weeks, especially with the return of Chase Young.