The 49ers’ interest in defensive end Chase Young was not motivated by the trade deadline. General Manager John Lynch and Washington Commander GM Martin Mayhew had talked about Young a few weeks before. Washington’s season was on a downhill spiral after successive losses, prompting them to consider trade offers for their formidable defensive front.
While the 49ers were focused on getting Chase Young, Lynch claimed that Mayhew also suggested incorporating defensive end Montez Sweat in the trade talks. San Francisco, on the other hand, finally decided not to pursue Sweat.
“In our early conversations,” Lynch recounted over the phone, “our sole focus was on Chase.” Martin remarked at one point, ‘For the right offer, Sweat might also be available.’ That’s when our perspectives broadened.”
When analyzing the trade market realities, San Francisco’s decision not to pursue Sweat seems apparent. Lynch stressed the team’s broader goal of enhancing its roster without jeopardizing future draft capital. They eventually acquired Chase Young in exchange for a compensatory third-round draft pick, leaving them with two third-round picks. Montez Sweat, on the other hand, was dealt to the Chicago Bears in return for a second-round pick. If San Francisco had chosen Sweat, they would have had to give up their own second-round pick, leaving them with no picks between the first and third rounds of the draft.
It’s worth remembering that Sweat is a talented player who may have helped the 49ers significantly. In comparison to Young, he has shown greater longevity and consistency throughout his career. However, San Francisco chose the less expensive option with tremendous upside.
