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The Washington Commanders have a solid roster for 2023. Washington is deep at key positions, such as defensive tackle, defensive end, wide receiver, cornerback and running back.
However, there are concerns at critical spots like quarterback and the offensive line. If Sam Howell emerges as Washington’s future at quarterback, it erases one concern and eases another [offensive line].
Howell may be the most important player for the Commanders in 2023. But is he Washington’s X-Factor for next season?
According to Pro Football Focus, Howell is not the Commanders’ X-Factor for 2023. Instead, PFF believes that’s defensive end Chase Young.
Here’s PFF’s explanation on Young as the choice:
Coming into the NFL with huge expectations, Young mostly fulfilled them during his 2020 rookie season with a terrific 87.1 overall grade. He tore his ACL in Week 10 of 2021, though, returning to play the final three games of this past season. Washington curiously declined his fifth-year option, so Young is entering a contract year. He has elite talent, and the Commanders’ success will be carried by their defense. A double-digit sack performance could make them an elite unit — and could line up Young for a big payday.
All good points on Young. Young has the ability to reach double-digit sacks, but if he doesn’t reach that number in 2023, it’s likely his last season in Washington. If he does, the Commanders are likely a playoff team because the defense is already excellent.