COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Former Ohio State defensive end Chase Young has found a long-term home in the NFL.
The 2019 Heisman Trophy finalist has reportedly signed a $51 million contract with the Saints that will keep him in New Orleans for the next three seasons. This comes after a 2024 season where he recorded 31 tackles, eight tackles or loss, 5.5 sacks and 21 QB hits.
Young’s NFL career has taken a few turns after starting out on such a high note. He was the first non-quarterback taken in the 2020 NFL Draft when the Washington Football Team — now called the Commanders — took him with the No. 2 pick. He immediately made that a wise choice with 44 tackles, 10 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks on his way to being the NFL’s Defensive Rookie of the Year. His trajectory had him on the same path as other former Buckeye pass rushers like Joey and Nick Bosa.
Then, injuries got in the way.
He played in just 12 games over the next two seasons, then was traded to the San Fransisco 49ers in 2023, reuniting with Nick Bosa. Together, the two reached Super Bowl LVIII before losing to the Kansas City Chiefs.
Signing with the Saints last year provided a chance for Young to get a fresh start on his career. Despite a lack of team success, he used the season to earn a long-term deal this year. Now he’ll be part of New Orleans' immediate future as Kellen Moore takes over as head coach.
Young has recorded 131 tackles, 28 tackles or loss and 22 sacks during his five-year career. As a Buckeye from 2017-19, he recorded 99 tackles, 43 tackles for loss and 30.5 sacks. In 2019, he set a school record with 16.5 sacks.