Steelers Have New Hope For Brandon Aiyuk Trade After A Future Hall Of Fame Lineman Holds Out For San Francisco 49ers

Any fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers is aware that the organization has big-time questions at the quarterback and wide receiver positions. The signal-caller room was revamped during the 2024 offseason as Russell Wilson and Justin Fields will now be the leaders in the locker room. It's easy to argue that the pass-catcher situation is much more disturbing. George Pickens has a lot of pressure on him after the front office failed to add a legitimate number two guy opposite of the 2022 second-round pick. The trade rumors have not stopped ever since Diontae Johnson was traded to the Carolina Panthers. 

The speculation surrounding Brandon Aiyuk has run rampant throughout the offseason, but the Steelers have undoubtedly been one of the most connected franchises to the blossoming star. He reported to the 49ers' training camp, but was seen walking off in the middle of practice on Wednesday and no one is quite sure what his future holds.

A new wrench was thrown into San Francisco's plans when formidable All-Pro and future Hall of Fame offensive lineman Trent Williams was not interested in practicing with his teammates because he wants his deal to be restructured or redone.

This raises questions about what the 49ers might feel is more important. Aiyuk has been a headache all offseason for San Francisco and while a once-in-a-generation offensive tackle hasn't been in the spotlight, he seems to be demanding a new deal. Reports detail that Williams is holding out while Aiyuk is holding in. It makes sense given the tenure and amount of money each player has made throughout their times in the NFL.

The plot thickens for the 49ers and teams all over the league are paying closer attention than ever to the Aiyuk situation. What makes matters worse for General Manager John Lynch is that Brock Purdy is do for what could be a record-breaking extension in 2025. There are no easy answers here, but it appears as if Williams and Purdy could be more in line to get what they desire over Aiyuk.

The smart decision from Lynch and co. would be to get what they can now from a team that is willing to pay Aiyuk. After a 75-reception, 1,342-yard season in 2023, the pass-catcher is in line to be paid like one of the best wideouts in the NFL. It's absolutely likely that the 49ers don't have the cash on hand to pay him, but are waiting out all of the franchises that have interest in Aiyuk.

Steelers General Manager Omar Khan has been completely unpredictable since he took over in May of 2022. No one is quite sure what he is waiting for in terms of a wide receiver trade, but the current unit it still making fans worry.  

Steelers Are An Unfortunate Injury To George Pickens Away From Being In Panic Mode

No one ever wishes an injury on a player, but Pittsburgh is certainly hoping that nothing bad happens to Pickens in 2024. The Steelers would arguably have the worst receiving core in the league if he went down with any kind of injury. That simple fact makes one wonder if Khan is continuously planning something, but waiting for the right time to strike.

Do you think that trouble in San Francisco with Williams could lead to Aiyuk being dealt sooner? Let us know in the comments below!

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