The San Francisco 49ers did not hold back once again at the trade deadline this year, pulling off a major deal with the Washington Commanders to acquire pass-rusher Chase Young. It was a move that has become normal for the 49ers. John Lynch and company do not shy away from adding talent when they get the opportunity.
Young has had a roller-coaster start to his NFL career. After being hyped up as a superstar pass-rusher right away, he has dealt with injury issues and some inconsistency. Making the switch to a stacked contender like the 49ers could be exactly what his career needed to get back on track.
One of the biggest questions about Young following his trade to the 49ers is whether or not he will stay in San Francisco long-term. His contract ends at the end of this season and there has been no movement on a new deal to this point.
In a recent quote, Young spoke out about his contract situation with the 49ers. However, he did not provide any eye-opening information in the quote.
“I’m not even worried about that right now. I’m just worried about learning this playbook and just being the best player that I can be.”
Should The 49ers Look To Sign Chase Young Long-Term?
To acquire Chase Young from Washington, the 49ers had to part with a third-round pick. While the price tag was not a “break the bank” kind of price tag, teams don’t trade third-round picks for half-season rentals. It seems likely that San Francisco would like to get a new deal done with Young rather than let him walk in free agency.
So far this season with the Commanders, Young played in seven games. He has totaled 15 tackles, five sacks, and a defended pass. It will be interesting to get a first look at how he fits in San Francisco’ defensive scheme.
There is no denying the potential and talent that Chase Young possesses. He has the skill-set to be an elite NFL edge rusher. If the 49ers can help him unlock that potential, this move will end up being yet another steal for the San Francisco front office.
Young is just 24 years old right now and is getting back to complete health after an ACL tear. Those injuries can be tough to return fully even when a return to the field is made. It can take some time to ramp back up from a mental perspective as well.
All of that being said, this will be a situation to monitor closely. Chase Young seems likely to stick around with the 49ers, but that is not a done deal. It will be interesting to see what the two parties choose to do.