The New Orleans Saints are closing in on a one-year contract with San Francisco 49ers defensive end Chase Young, per NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. CBS Sports’ Josina Anderson reports the deal is worth up to $13 million, though ESPN’s Adam Schefter says that number is fully guaranteed. We’ll have to wait for clarity, but this is a good low-risk, high-reward option for the Saints.
Young was traded to the 49ers after a disappointing run with the Washington Commanders that saw the former second overall draft pick miss extensive time with injuries. His time in San Francisco was dimmed by effort concerns when he let plays get away from him, but the Saints are betting on talent triumphing in a big opportunity. They badly need to upgrade their pass rush after sacking opposing quarterbacks just 34 times last season, tied for fourth-fewest in the NFL.