Could the Saints Trade Chase Young?

Very recently, the Tennessee Titans traded away 29-year-old Jeffrey Simmons to the Chicago Bears, and the return was incredible for the Titans. Tennessee got two first-round picks and two second-round picks. Simmons just signed a massive three-year contract, so the Bears will not have to worry about extending the best defensive tackle in the NFL. 

The Titans are still in their rebuild, and this year has not gone well for the team. Having to move on from a franchise legend is never an easy decision, but the writing was on the wall, and his value is at its highest. 

So, this is where we can start talking about the New Orleans Saints. Looking at where the roster currently is, the struggles from the staff, and how the season has gone so far, the Saints should be sellers at the deadline. There's doubt that will actually happen due to the jobs of many on the line, but in a perfect world, this would be the time to build draft capital. The Saints also do not have the best assets to make moves. But they do have one player who could make sense as a trade option with his age and contract situation, and that's Chase Young. 

Young has been one of the Saints’ best players for the past two seasons, and at times, he is carrying the defensive line’s pass rush. Young is 27, near the top of the league in sacks, and has two more seasons on his contract that are excellent value. He is an incredible trade asset for the Saints and could garner an incredible return of assets. 

As I mentioned, Simmons was traded for two firsts and two seconds, but I'm not sure Young would get to that same level of return. Simmons has been one of the best defensive tackles in the NFL for a long time, while Young has only just had his breakout recently. Still, EDGE is a premier position in the NFL. When considering all of these potential trade factors, the Saints could get a first-round pick and two second-round picks in return for Young. 

Again, it will likely not happen, but if the Saints do view this team as one that needs long-term assets, and if GM Mickey Loomis feels like he is staying no matter what happens after this year, a deal for Young could be made. Looking at the Saints roster, that would honestly destroy the defense, and the issue is that this front office has little proof of being able to draft a pass rusher.