In a deadline day frenzy, the Atlanta Falcons, Baltimore Ravens, and San Francisco 49ers were actively engaged in trade talks for defensive ends Chase Young and Montez Sweat. The Falcons were particularly keen on acquiring Sweat, a contract-year player, and had even prepared an extension if a deal had gone through.

The Bears, however, outbid the Falcons with a second-round offer for Montez Sweat, leaving Atlanta empty-handed. Sweat, who has familial ties to the Atlanta area, was reportedly on board with joining the Falcons. Despite their efforts, the Falcons continue to struggle with pass rush and currently hold the second-worst sack total in the league.

Meanwhile, the Ravens were also in discussions with the Washington Commanders for Chase Young, the highly coveted edge rusher. Baltimore, known for their strong defensive unit, was looking to bolster their pass rushing capabilities. Details of the trade offer from the Ravens remain unclear, but it was ultimately the San Francisco 49ers who secured Young by giving up only a compensatory third-rounder.

John Lynch, the 49ers' general manager, had talks with both Martin Mayhew, the Washington Commanders' GM, and Joe Schoen, the Giants' GM. While the specific player the 49ers were pursuing from the Giants remains unknown, the Giants' previous trade of Leonard Williams made them an attractive target.

The Commanders, under the leadership of head coach Ron Rivera, did not let a recent narrow loss to the Eagles deter them from making strategic moves. The decision to trade Young and Sweat was part of a process that began approximately 10 days ago, according to Rivera. While there may have been tensions between the ownership and front office, Rivera stressed that all parties were onboard with the trades.

With the departure of Young and Sweat, the Commanders have lost two key pillars of their pass rush. The duo had recorded a combined total of 11.5 sacks this season. However, Rivera remains determined to move forward and find new ways to strengthen his team.

As the trade deadline drew to a close, the Falcons, Ravens, and 49ers made significant moves in their pursuit of defensive ends. Only time will tell if these acquisitions will pay off and provide the much-needed boost to their respective pass rushing units.