The Washington Commanders activated defensive end Chase Young from the Physically Unable to Perform list on Monday, placing him on the team’s roster more than a year after tearing his ACL.
Coach Ron Rivera said he’s unsure yet whether Young will be in next weekend’s showdown against the Atlanta Falcons, but added the defensive end has made enough progress from his injury to be part of the active roster. The Commanders had until Wednesday to decide to activate him to the roster as his 21-day practice window was set to close. If the team didn’t activate him, Young would have been done for the season.
Young’s return, however, should be a boost for a defensive line that has already been one of the most effective units in the league this season. If Young plays against the Falcons, Rivera said the pass-rusher will be on a snap count of 12 to 16 plays. Young’s workload will then be increased over the following weeks.
“If he’s ready to play, he’ll play,” Rivera said. “If he’s not, he’ll wait another week. He’s ready to go as far as being activated.”
Young tore his ACL last November in a game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The injury was more severe than the traditional ACL tear as the pass-rusher required reconstruction surgery, a procedure that further extended the recovery process.
• Matthew Paras can be reached at mparas@washingtontimes.com.
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