Washington Commanders defensive end Chase Young knows this is a big season for him. After Washington declined to exercise his fifth-year option for 2024, Young will be a free agent next offseason.
When the Commanders opened training camp on Wednesday, Young shredded the bulky knee brace and looked a lot like the player Washington fans remember before his devastating knee injury in 2021.
Young met with reporters after practice Thursday, and he’s excited to be back with his teammates. But regarding setting expectations for 2023, Young isn’t about to go there.
“Yeah, I wouldn’t say 2020,” Young said when asked if he felt like the 2020 version of himself. “I feel myself. I feel well. I’m where my feet are at, and I feel good.”
Outside of Young’s return, the biggest story surrounding the Commanders is the new owners. Josh Harris and minority partner Mitchell Rales were in town Wednesday and met with the team. Harris, Rales and another partner, Mark Ein, returned on Thursday.
Consider Young among those impressed with the new ownership group.
“Oh, real exciting, man,” Young said of meeting Harris and Rales. “Definitely excited about Mr. Harris, [Washington Commanders Limited Partner] Magic [Johnson], the whole group. Big things coming, and definitely looking forward to it.”
Young was also happy to see the fans back at practice.
Speaking of the fans, Young was asked if he noticed the new bleachers. His response was perfect.
The best soundbite so far of training camp belongs to Chase Young!
"I see Mr. Harris ain't playing games"
😂😂😂 pic.twitter.com/9MeGKCvmym
— Scott Abraham (@Scott7news) July 27, 2023
It’s good to see a happy and smiling Young.