Former Ohio State Star Seeking Massive NFL Contract Extension
As the NFL season continues to unfold, some of the league’s most electrifying stars are gearing up for big contract negotiations, and one former Ohio State standout is no exception. This player, who has long been a key figure in the NFL, is now setting his sights on a massive contract extension that would ensure his financial future and solidify his place among the league’s elite athletes.
The Player in Question
Though there are numerous Ohio State alumni making waves in the NFL, the player at the center of this contract extension discussion is none other than Chase Young, the defensive powerhouse who once terrorized quarterbacks in the Big Ten. After a sensational career with the Ohio State Buckeyes, Young was selected with the second overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft by the Washington Football Team, which is now the Washington Commanders.
Young’s college career was nothing short of spectacular. He amassed 30.5 sacks in just 30 games, including a dominating 16.5 sacks in his final season at Ohio State, which earned him the prestigious Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year award. His combination of size, speed, and raw power made him a once-in-a-generation talent. His ability to rush the passer and disrupt offenses was well-established before he even set foot in the NFL, where expectations were high.
The Rise to Prominence in the NFL
Chase Young entered the NFL with immediate expectations to be a game-changer, and for the most part, he delivered. In his rookie season, Young became one of the most feared edge rushers in the league, finishing with 7.5 sacks, 10 tackles for loss, and four forced fumbles. His presence on the field was undeniable, and his versatility as both a pass rusher and run stopper quickly earned him a place among the NFL’s top young talents. His rookie season performance earned him a spot on the NFL All-Rookie Team and set the stage for an even brighter future.
However, things took an unfortunate turn in Year 2. During the 2021 season, Young suffered a torn ACL in his right knee, which sidelined him for the remainder of the season and limited his ability to showcase his full potential. The injury certainly stunted his development, but many analysts, fans, and teammates were quick to point out that Young’s athleticism and dedication would eventually allow him to bounce back stronger than ever.
The 2023 Season: A Comeback for the Ages
Fast forward to the 2023 season, and Young’s return to form has been nothing short of spectacular. He has regained his explosiveness and is once again dominating offensive lines. Through the season, Young’s combination of agility, power, and motor has allowed him to become one of the most disruptive defensive players in the NFL once again. His sack numbers are climbing, and he’s reestablished himself as a top-tier edge rusher in a league with some of the best in the business.
This resurgence has only increased the demand for Young’s services. With his contract set to expire after the 2024 season, there’s no shortage of speculation about what kind of contract extension he might command. Given his unique skill set and the impact he’s had since his return from injury, Young is in prime position to negotiate a massive deal that would make him one of the highest-paid defensive players in the NFL.
Why the Extension Makes Sense
From both the player’s and the team’s perspective, an extension makes perfect sense. For Young, locking in a long-term contract now would ensure his financial security, particularly after overcoming the significant setback of his knee injury. A lucrative contract extension would not only reward him for his elite performance but would also establish him as one of the faces of the franchise for years to come. With his youth (still in his mid-20s) and elite skill set, Young is poised to continue being a dominant force in the league for the foreseeable future.
For the Commanders, keeping Young in Washington for the long haul is equally important. The NFL is a league driven by star power, and Young is a marquee player who can be a cornerstone of the defense for years to come. As the NFL continues to place more emphasis on pass rushers, having someone like Young on the roster provides the Commanders with a unique advantage. His ability to change the course of a game and disrupt opposing offenses is exactly what any team needs to stay competitive, especially in a division like the NFC East, where offensive firepower is abundant.
What the Contract Could Look Like
When it comes to the specifics of Young’s potential contract extension, the numbers are sure to be astronomical. Given his position, skill set, and age, Young is likely looking at a deal that could put him among the top earners in the NFL. In the modern NFL, edge rushers often secure contracts worth upwards of $20 million to $25 million per year, and based on his performance, Young could very well exceed these numbers.
To put it into perspective, T.J. Watt, another elite edge rusher in the league, signed a contract extension in 2021 worth $112 million over four years, with an average annual value of $28 million. Young, given his potential and performance in 2023, could be aiming for a deal that mirrors or even surpasses Watt’s contract.
It’s important to note that Young’s injury history might play a role in negotiations. While his recovery and performance in 2023 suggest he is back to his dominant self, there may still be some concerns from Washington’s front office about the risk of re-injury. However, these concerns are likely to be mitigated by the sheer upside Young provides as one of the best young defensive players in the NFL.
Other Factors in the Contract Negotiation
Aside from his on-field performance, there are a few other factors that could influence the contract extension talks. For one, Young’s personality and marketability off the field make him a highly marketable asset for the Washington Commanders. He is a player that commands attention both on the field and in the media, making him a valuable player from a branding perspective. This could make him an even more attractive option for the team to retain in the long term.
Additionally, the team’s future cap space and overall financial flexibility will play a role in the negotiations. The Commanders will need to manage their salary cap to ensure they have the room to re-sign Young while also maintaining a competitive roster. With the salary cap continuing to rise in the coming years, it’s not out of the question that the team could find a way to structure a deal that accommodates Young’s massive contract while also allowing the team to build a winning roster around him.
The Impact of a New Deal on the NFL Landscape
If Chase Young signs a massive contract extension, it will undoubtedly impact the NFL’s defensive player market. The contracts of other high-profile edge rushers, such as Myles Garrett and Nick Bosa, could be influenced by the terms of Young’s deal. It could set a new precedent for what elite pass rushers are worth in today’s NFL, especially as the importance of quarterback pressure and sacks continues to increase.
Moreover, the extension could serve as a signal of the Commanders’ commitment to building a championship-contending team around young stars like Young. By locking up their franchise player, the team can focus on surrounding him with other pieces to build a competitive defense and, ultimately, a playoff-caliber team.