Report: Commanders' Young expected to debut vs. Texans

The Washington Commanders are expected to activate defensive end Chase Young ahead of Sunday's game against the Houston Texans, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Young hasn't played since tearing his ACL and MCL last November in a game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

He was placed on the physically unable to perform list to begin the season and returned to practice on Nov. 2, giving the Commanders 21 days to activate him.

Washington was optimistic that the 2020 Defensive Rookie of the Year winner could return against the Philadelphia Eagles on Monday Night Football. However, defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio shared that Young was yet to do everything at full speed.

Head coach Ron Rivera said the team is looking long term as Young returns from a serious knee injury.

"We won't play him unless we feel he's ready to roll," Rivera said, according to ESPN's John Keim.

Young proved to be a boost to the Commanders' defense after recording 44 tackles, 7.5 sacks, and four forced fumbles during his rookie campaign in 2020. The Ohio State product couldn't match those numbers last season, tallying 26 tackles, three tackles for loss, and 1.5 sacks in eight contests.

Washington will attempt to build on its momentum following a win Monday over the Eagles.