Commanders' Ron Rivera Details 'Big Part' of Chase Young's Fifth-Year Option Pickup

Commanders head coach Ron Rivera has given an insight into one key part of whether the franchise picks up Chase Young's fifth-year option.

The Washington Commanders have a big decision regarding defense end Chase Young and his fifth-year option. 

After seeing Daron Payne play this past season to determine whether a new contract would be forthcoming with superb results, could the Commanders do the same with Young?

For head coach Ron Rivera, one key detail will be discussed regarding Young's fifth-year option and whether to pick it up — his health.

"That's the thing that will drive a big part of the conversation," Rivera said via Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post. "As we continue to work through this and talk about it, it will be about seeing him and watching him. Again, we get started April 17, so we'll continue to work through these things -- talk to the doctors, talk to the trainers, strength and medical -- and just kind of get a feel for where he is. Then we'll be able to make a decision and we'll go from there."

Young was a slow burn last season as he was coming off his ACL injury. Washington decided not to rush the star defensive end back as he played the season's last three games.

His snap counts went up in each game (58 percent, 67 percent, and 70 percent), which is a positive sign, and Young himself stated at season's end that he is looking forward to returning stronger next year.

"I'm excited that I don't have to rehab my knee this offseason," Young said. "I can just get strong as a mug, come back explosive."

While Young hopes to be returning to somewhat near 100 percent, a lot is riding on his health heading into the new season ... including his future with the Commanders.

---

Follow Adam Schultz on Twitter

Want the latest in breaking news and insider information on the Washington Commanders? Click Here.

Follow Commander Country on Twitter.

Want even more Washington Commanders news? Check out the SI.com team page here