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The Indianapolis Colts have an intriguing pass-rushing corps but now have been listed as a potential suitor for Washington Commanders defensive end Chase Young.
After declining the fifth-year option on Young’s rookie contract, there’s a chance the Commanders trade Young before the end of his deal expires following the 2023 season.
In listing potential suitors for the 24-year-old earlier this month, CBS Sports’ Cody Benjamin had the Colts featured among the potential trade destinations.
Between DeForest Buckner, Grover Stewart and Kwity Paye, they’re not hurting for talent in the trenches. But their leading pass rusher from a year ago, Yannick Ngakoue, will be gone, leaving a slew of reserves to pick up the slack. Under new coach Shane Steichen, they seem to be taking a longer-term approach, at least according to their QB activity, and Young is early enough in his career that he could still be more of a down-the-road project.
Teams should always be looking for pass-rush help regardless of what the room looks like. The Colts made an intriguing addition in free agency, signing Samson Ebukam to replace Ngakoue, and they expect 2021 second-round pick Dayo Odeyingbo to take a step forward in Year 3.
Young, who was the No. 2 overall pick in 2020, was expected to be a star before tearing his ACL, which included a ruptured patellar tendon. He hasn’t been quite the same since, playing in just three games during the 2022 season.
Of course, it always comes down to price. And the Colts would have to consider what it would cost if they needed to sign Young to another contract if he regains his form in 2023. So there would be a lot of moving parts.
But Washington is likely looking at a decision in which they have to choose next offseason between Young and 2019 first-round pick Montez Sweat, who has been extremely productive since entering the league.
Adding to the pass rush is something the Colts should always consider. Teams can never have too many capable assets when it comes to getting after the quarterback.
It’s unlikely a trade happens, but there still could be some upside if Young is given the time to fully recover from his knee injury.