San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk finds himself at the centre of contract negotiations and trade rumors. As the NFL Draft approaches, the situation has intensified, leaving fans and analysts speculating about his future with the team.
San Francisco 49ers Brandin Aiyuk told people close to him he does not wanted TRADED but just wants PAID pic.twitter.com/VxhNv2J0TY
— NFL Rumors (@nflrums) April 23, 2024
One NFL general manager believes that a potential trade involving Brandon Aiyuk is “very much in play” ahead of the draft. The reason? The 49ers and Aiyuk are reportedly “far apart” on an extension. Aiyuk’s current contract expires in 2025, making his situation a pressing concern for the team.
Brandon Aiyuk’s Stellar Performance
In the 2023 season, Brandon Aiyuk had a breakout year, recording a career-high 1,342 receiving yards and seven touchdowns in 16 regular-season starts. His explosive playmaking ability and versatility have made him a valuable asset for the 49ers.
Reports indicate that Brandon Aiyuk is seeking a contract well over $25 million per season. While the 49ers appreciate his talent, they are reportedly “reluctant” to meet this asking price. Negotiations have stalled, partly because the upcoming draft class is considered “receiver-rich.” The team may be exploring other options to bolster their receiving corps.
General manager John Lynch expressed his desire to keep Brandon Aiyuk in San Francisco “for the rest of his career.” However, Lynch’s history with contract negotiations raises questions. In 2018, he made similar statements about defensive lineman DeForest Buckner, only to trade him to the Indianapolis Colts later. Fans hope that history won’t repeat itself with Aiyuk.
The 49ers reportedly asked for a first-round pick in this year’s draft in any potential Aiyuk trade. While some consider this asking price too high, it reflects the team’s commitment to securing valuable assets. Brandon Aiyuk’s fate remains uncertain, and rival teams may be willing to pay a premium for his services.
Ultimately, the ball is in Aiyuk’s court. Does he want to stay in San Francisco, where the team’s future looks promising, or explore other opportunities? The 49ers hope to resolve the situation sooner rather than later, but the outcome remains uncertain.
ALSO READ: Anthony Edwards’ Fiery Trash Talk Ignites NBA Playoffs: A Closer Look
