The Pittsburgh Steelers have been rumored to be interested in Brandon Aiyuk, which has led to countless tiresome debates, discussions, and tons of speculation about where the receiver will play in 2024. Other teams have been rumored to be involved, but it seems the San Francisco 49ers don't want to give up on working out a deal with the budding star. The whole situation has been talked about everywhere and, at this point, most fans just want it to be resolved.
Associated Press
Wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk runs out of the tunnel prior to a San Francisco 49ers' game.
The two sides haven't gotten closer on a deal, and Aiyuk has officially requested a trade. He has been in attendance at training camp, but he hasn't been practicing at all. He wants to get paid, or traded, and then he'll put the helmet on. Being at camp prevents Aiyuk from being fined even though he isn't practicing. Matt Maiocco, a beat reporter covering the 49ers for NBC, recently wrote up a report that states it is likely Aiyuk will be sent elsewhere rather than receive a new deal in San Francisco.
"Aiyuk has expressed an interest in remaining with the 49ers, so that remains a possibility, too. All he has to do is accept the San Francisco's latest offer — believed to be at least a couple million shy of the $30-million-a-year threshold. At this point, Aiyuk and the 49ers have some options. And it appears more likely than ever that the 49ers are willing to make a trade. It might be up to Aiyuk to determine the next move."
The 49ers want Aiyuk back, but not for as much as he is asking for. He has had an offer on the table from the team for a long time, but he won't sign it until the numbers on the paper match what he thinks he is worth. There are many teams throughout the league that could use a guy like Aiyuk, but only a few that would be willing to trade for him and sign him to a new extension.
Steph Chambers / Getty Images
San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk (#11) points in the direction of an official to confirm he is lined up properly before a snap during a professional football game.
San Francisco is one of the best teams in the league, and they are one of the strongest competitors for the Lombardi Trophy. If they were to trade Aiyuk, they would likely want to receive a player back in the deal. Draft capital doesn't help them get to the Super Bowl; they want something they could see immediate results from. Two players that could pique the 49ers' interest would be Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig, as they could use a pass rusher to pair with Nick Bosa.
Pittsburgh and General Manager Omar Khan certainly wouldn't trade away Highsmith, and it's not likely they want to trade Herbig either. However, that might be what it takes to get a receiver like Aiyuk.
NBA Sports Bay Area
49ers star Brandon Aiyuk shakes hands with John Lynch after a game.
Steelers Could Already Be Talking With Aiyuk's Team
Aiyuk has already officially requested a trade, and if the 49ers decide thats the route they are going to take, they could give permission to Aiyuk's representatives to start working with a new team on a new deal. Say the 49ers and Steelers agree on a trade, Aiyuk's team would already be finalizing his new deal that he would sign as soon as he arrives.
The 49ers and Aiyuk could do this with any team, not just the Steelers. The Steelers have a clear need for Aiyuk, have plenty of draft capital, and can afford a contract the size of what Aiyuk's is projected to be.
Aiyuk's future could be in his own hands. He can either sign the deal from the 49ers and play for a serious contender for another year, or he can continue to hold out until his wish is granted and he is traded.
What do you think will happen with Aiyuk? Will the Steelers land him in a sign-and-trade? Let us know in the comments below!
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