Will the 49ers Sign Chase Young Long Term?

Chase Young fit in perfectly in his first game with the 49ers.

He didn't know the full defensive scheme or all the run fits just yet, so he played only 35 snaps, or 61 percent. And he still recorded half a sack and 2 quarterback hits. And his playing time only will increase as the season progresses.

Finally, it seems the 49ers have found the speed rusher who complements Nick Bosa's power. Young is the best speed rusher the 49ers have had since Dee Ford, who was lightning quick but often injured. Ford usually was the first pass rusher in the backfield, and he forced the opposing quarterback to hold the ball and move in the pocket, which allowed Bosa to sack him. Young can have the same impact.

So will the 49ers sign him long term this offseason?

Young will be a free agent, and it's unclear what kind of a contract he'll get on the open market. The Washington Commanders recently traded him to the 49ers for a late third-round pick, so it doesn't seem Young's market currently is that robust.

If Young's stock stays the same the rest of the year, it's conceivable the 49ers could sign him to a two-year, $25 million contract. Or perhaps an inexpensive one-year prove-it deal that would allow Young to play one more season with the 49ers and then cash in the following year.

But if Young's stock skyrockets down the stretch of this season, which is possible while playing alongside Bosa, Javon Hargrave and Arik Armstead, it's likely he will price himself out of town and the 49ers will have to find his replacement.

Stay tuned.