The Washington Commanders kicked off a new era on Tuesday. Ahead of Tuesday’s NFL trade deadline, Washington traded defensive ends Montez Sweat (Chicago Bears) and Chase Young (San Francisco 49ers) for second and third-round picks in the 2024 NFL draft, respectively.
Commanders’ fans appreciated Sweat, but many felt the value was too good to pass up. As for Young, feelings were mixed. While Sweat has been the better player, Young was the more hyped player, and sometimes, that hype far exceeded his on-field production.
Young, who had missed the better part of the past two seasons, was playing reasonably well this year with five sacks. But fans, remembering the promise of his rookie season, were left wanting more.
As for the compensation, Washington will receive one of San Francisco’s compensatory selections in the 2024 NFL draft. That upset some, but, as NFL insiders will tell you, was the market for Young due to his injury history and contract expiring.
Here are some of the top reactions to the Chase Young trade.