When it comes to the 49ers’ pursuit of defensive end Chase Young, their interest did not just emerge at the trade deadline. General manager John Lynch and Commanders GM Martin Mayhew had already discussed Young a few weeks prior. With Washington’s recent losses causing their season to falter, they were willing to negotiate deals involving the talented defensive front.
While Young was the main focus for the 49ers, Lynch revealed that Mayhew also mentioned DE Montez Sweat as a potential addition. However, San Francisco was not interested in acquiring him.
“Initially, our conversations solely revolved around Chase,” Lynch explained during a conference call. “But at some point, Martin mentioned that, for the right price, Sweat could also be available. And that’s where things stood.”
Given what Sweat ultimately fetched on the trade market, it makes sense why the 49ers did not pursue him. Lynch emphasized during the conference call that the team sought to improve their roster without sacrificing future draft capital. Young was acquired for a compensatory third-round pick, leaving San Francisco with two Round 3 selections. Sweat, on the other hand, was traded to the Bears in exchange for a second-round pick. If the 49ers had used their own second-round pick, they would have been left without a selection between the first round and the end of the third round.
While Sweat is undoubtedly a talented player who could have contributed to the 49ers’ success, San Francisco decided to go with the less costly option that still had significant potential – Chase Young.
