The situation surrounding wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk is becoming increasingly complex as the San Francisco 49ers and Pittsburgh Steelers navigate ongoing contract negotiations. Aiyuk, who is reportedly dissatisfied with the final year of his current contract, is seeking a better deal from the 49ers.
Analysts predict that Aiyuk may hold out, potentially missing the start of the season, if the 49ers fail to meet his demands. Speculation suggests that this standoff could result in Aiyuk being traded to the Steelers, with the 49ers receiving draft picks in return. These picks might then be used to acquire a veteran wide receiver from another team.
Grant Cohn, a prominent analyst, believes that Aiyuk’s situation could lead to a trade if the 49ers remain unwilling to meet his terms. He envisions a scenario where Aiyuk sits out the first few weeks of the season before being traded to Pittsburgh. The Steelers reportedly prepared to offer Aiyuk a more lucrative contract than the 49ers, are in a waiting game, ready to make a move if negotiations stall further.
While there are hopes for a resolution, the timeline remains uncertain. The 49ers and Aiyuk have reportedly agreed on most aspects of a new contract, but the final year’s terms remain a sticking point. Both teams are currently offering less than $28 million per year, which has contributed to the ongoing impasse. The outcome of these negotiations will determine whether Aiyuk stays with the 49ers or finds himself starting a new chapter with the Steelers.
Is Brandon Aiyuk staying with the 49ers?
Aiyuk reportedly wishes to remain in Santa Clara with the club that drafted him 25th overall in 2020. NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo said that Aiyuk and the 49ers are close to a deal, with just a small issue over the fourth and final year delaying it.
When did the 49ers get Brandon Aiyuk?
The San Francisco 49ers selected Brandon Aiyuk in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft.
