USA Today Sports

NFL Free Agency: Chase Young to Falcons?

Originally posted on Atlanta Falcons on SI
By Harrison Reno | Last updated 3/18/24

Heading into the first full week of the NFL's new league year, the Atlanta Falcons have already filled some of their priority needs through free agency.

The signing of Kirk Cousins gave them their next franchise quarterback, while they added two weapons, Darnell Mooney and Rondale Moore, to go along with what they already had in Bijan Robinson, Drake London, and Kyle Pitts.

But there is still work to be done for the Falcons if they hope to make good on their playoff aspirations this season. One position in particular could still use help, that being edge rusher.

Perhaps the team would be interested in San Francisco 49ers free agent Chase Young.

The former No. 2 overall pick still finds himself available in free agency despite coming off his best season since his rookie year. Young, 24, was traded by the Washington Commanders at midseason to the 49ers after a lackluster start to his career.

However, despite never starting a game in his nine appearances for the Niners, Young matched his rookie season, as he totaled 25 tackles, six for a loss, 7.5 sacks, and 25 quarterback hits.

While Young has yet to live up to his draft status, that fact could benefit the Falcons, as they could offer him a one-year "prove-it" deal. If it works out, Young would have the opportunity to ask for more money next offseason, which could come via the Falcons.

Young is set to visit the New Orleans Saints, Carolina Panthers and Tennessee Titans in free agency, but perhaps he could hop over nearby to visit the Falcons as well.

This article first appeared on Atlanta Falcons on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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