ASHBURN, Va. (AP) — Chase Young will miss the Washington Commanders’ first four games of the season after landing on the reserves/physically unworkable list.
The team added Young and backup center Tyler Larsen to its list on Tuesday, released receiver Kelvin Harmon and offensive tackle Rashod Hill, and placed linebacker Nathan Gerry on the injured list.
Young, the 2020 Defensive Rookie of the Year, is back from surgery to repair a torn ACL in his right knee. Porting some was included.
“Having been through this, it’s hard to predict recovery times,” said coach Ron Rivera. What is the timeline?I can’t tell you.
Rivera had already ruled out Washington’s top pass rusher for the season opener against Jacksonville, suggesting Young could start the season on the PUP list. There is no guarantee that we will be ready by then against Tennessee.
The team and Young have refused to set a timetable for his return from what Rivera has repeatedly called a serious injury. It paved the way for young linemen to take on greater responsibility.
“It’s been about adjusting my focus. I’m doing the same things I used to do, but now I have more opportunities, I play more,” Twohill said. “I think it’s the same now. Just keep the same focus and keep things going.”
Young still wears a brace on his right knee while out in practice. Despite not participating, the 23-year-old has spoken out during team practices and helped his teammates in quiet ways.
“He sees things very well when it comes to the game of football,” Twohill said. “He’s here and coaching us. He’s not grumpy. He doesn’t just say things for the sake of saying them. He’s been very helpful with technique and has taught us all. He is very detailed and guides everyone.”
Honorable Jürgensen
The Commanders will retire Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback Sonny Jürgensen’s No. 9 jersey in the regular-season finale against rival Dallas Cowboys on Jan. 7-8. In broadcasting, he spent a total of 55 years with the organization.
Co-owner Tanya Snyder said in a statement, “No member of the Washington franchise will ever wear the number 9 again. This is a true tribute to Sony’s incredible achievements on and off the field. And I have 55 Sony dedicated to the franchise. People remember him as one of the greatest quarterbacks in franchise history and as the radio voice of a team that won three Super Bowls. He represents true excellence and professionalism and serves as a role model for future Washington players.
The team announced the honors on Jürgensen’s 88th birthday.
“I am very humbled by this recognition,” he said.
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