NFL Trade Rumors: Commanders' Chase Young, Montez Sweat 'Available' Ahead of Deadline

The Washington Commanders are reportedly making defensive ends Chase Young and Montez Sweat "available" before the trade deadline.

"They won't say it publicly, but they will (sell)," one executive told Ben Standig of The Athletic. "They're looking for value. All on the table."

The Commanders have reportedly not had any extension talks with Young or Sweat, who will both be free agents after this season. Washington declined Young's fifth-year option in his contract amid injury issues, and Sweat is playing out the fifth year of his rookie deal.

Both players will be eligible to receive the franchise tag if Washington so chooses. The front office played out a similar game last season with defensive tackle Daron Payne before eventually franchising him in February and then signing him to a new deal a month later.

Young is in the midst of an impressive return to form, compiling 14 tackles and five sacks through his first six games of 2023. PFF has given him a stellar 78.7 rating for the season; Young should and will get paid this offseason if he avoids injury and continues his current performance level.

Sweat is on pace for the best season of his career, compiling 27 tackles, 5.5 sacks and two forced fumbles. His PFF rating of 76.5 is right in line with Young.

The Commanders are 3-4 despite the stellar play of their defensive line, with nearly every other aspect of the roster falling behind. Their corners have been consistently beaten, linebackers have not been up to snuff covering the run, and the offense has been a mess for weeks.

With a new ownership group in place and likely looking to make seismic changes this offseason, it would not be a surprise if Washington sold high on Sweat and Young.