The 49ers Need Chase Young to Step Up in the Playoffs

When the 49ers traded for Chase Young, he was supposed to be the missing player who would put them over the top. And he still might, but he'll have to make a significant impact in the playoffs, because he didn't make one in the regular season.

The 49ers traded for Young during their bye week. And since then, Young has played in nine games, made zero starts and recorded just 2.5 sacks and six quarterback hits while playing subpar run defense. As opposed to Clelin Ferrell, who has recorded 3 sacks while playing good run defense since the bye week.

Young was supposed to be a major upgrade over Ferrell, but he hasn't been. Now Ferrell will miss at least one playoff game with a knee injury, which means it's time for Young to step up and play like the quality starter he's supposed to be.

In 7 games with the Commanders this season, Young recorde 5 sacks and 9 quarterback hits. What happened to that guy? Could that guy join the 49ers for the playoffs?

The word on Young in Washington was that he didn't give maximum effort every play. The 49ers probably thought Young would play harder for them, because they're making a playoff push, while the Commanders are tanking.

But Young hasn't played harder for the 49ers -- it actually seems like he played harder for Washington. Maybe he simply has been pacing himself for the playoffs.

Well, they're here. Time to play hard and earn a contract for next season.