The New Orleans Saints have signed Chase Young, according to NFL Network source Ian Rapoport.
Chase Young, the Washington Commanders’ previous No. 2 overall pick, has a new beginning after being traded to the San Francisco 49ers in the middle of the season.
San Francisco was a powerhouse in NFL season, earning the No. 1 seed in the NFC after acquiring Young at the trade deadline, but they failed to win the Super Bowl after trading a day two choice for the defensive end.
Young had his best individual season since his rookie year, tying his regular-season career high with 7.5 sacks despite being traded for a third-round choice. He even achieved postseason success, recording a sack in the Super Bowl.
Despite San Francisco’s overall excellent season, the failure to win the Lombardi Trophy raises the question of whether the trade for Young was worthwhile.
Given that Washington declined to exercise the fifth-year option on Young’s rookie deal, the 49ers only had Young under contract this season. Young and Nick Bosa, former Ohio State teammates, never turned into the lethal pass-rushing tandem that many predicted.
The Commanders will be able to continue rebuilding via the draft with the additional third-round selection acquired in exchange for Young, which is a better option for this roster than committing money to Young based on his potential.
For the time being, it appears that both clubs are tied in this deal, but depending on whether or not the 49ers re-sign Young and who Washington chooses, the winner may become more clear.
