Steelers "Are For Sure In It Right Now" Regarding Brandon Aiyuk Trade Negotiations

The Pittsburgh Steelers are apparently still on the Brandon Aiyuk merry-go-round despite reports that they have stepped off. The possible trade of the San Francisco 49ers' standout wide receiver has consumed much of the offseason, and the Steelers have been considered a front-runner for most of it. 

Aiyuk has been clearly disgruntled and unhappy with the extension offered by the 49ers, and reports that other teams are courting him have been running rampant. Social media ran wild with reports that Aiyuk was spotted in the Steel City and posts saying the deal was all but done. Fans were mostly ecstatic, praying that the Steelers would Pro Football Focus’ second-highest-graded receiver to their room to help lighten the load for George Pickens.   

Then, on Monday night, word came out from 49ers insiders that the Steelers hadn't offered enough in trade to General Manager John Lynch. The Steelers were apparently out on negotiations until they weren't. NFL insider Ian Rapoport said from Inside Training Camp Live that the Steelers still have a shot. 

"My understanding is there are active trade discussions between the San Francisco 49ers and several teams," said Rapoport. "My understanding is the Pittsburgh Steelers have had discussions with the 49ers about potentially trading Brandon Aiyuk. They are for sure in it right now. They are one of several teams that the 49ers are speaking with right now. There are a couple of different parts to this trade. But at some point, those two sides could come together and get a deal in place."

Rapoport said the New England Patriots and the Cleveland Browns are the other two teams in contention for Aiyuk. He believes the talks are further along with the Patriots and the Browns, but fans shouldn't count the Steelers out yet.

Aiyuk had a solid performance in 2023. He had 75 receptions for 1,342 yards and seven touchdowns. During his four years in the league, he has 269 receptions for 3,931 yards and 25 touchdowns. PFF credits Aiyuk with only having two drops in 86 catchable passes for the entire year. That talent is why Rapoport said Aiyuk is in a position to make so many demands. 

"Then there's the contract that Brandon Aiyuk would want. That's the reason he's had so much power, so much say in this situation because he's not going anywhere unless he gets a contract that he wants, that sets him up financially like he desires. The market has absolutely skyrocketed, and he is going to benefit from that. But that is why the situation really hasn't moved: because there are so many different parts and it is more fluid than any other trade that I can remember."

If Aiyuk does come to Pittsburgh, there would have to be some sort of significant trade given to the 49ers. Clearly, they won't be motivated to just allow him to walk away for next to nothing. That raises the question of who might be trade fodder in that scenario. Some names that have been suggested are Alex Highmsith, Dan Moore, Jr., Calvin Austin III, and Darnell Washington.   

Can Steelers’ George Pickens Handle The WR1 Spot? 

The rumors surrounding Aiyuk and the Steelers ramped up after Diontae Johnson was traded away, leaving Pickens in the top spot. Pickens' talent is undisputed. He can snatch contested catches like few others, and that has made him a fan favorite. But his inconsistent maturity has left a bad taste in many mouths and raised concerns over whether he can handle all the responsibility. 

Pittsburgh brought in some other veteran receivers to partner with Pickens and Austin, including Quez Watkins and Van Jefferson. Jefferson has been impressing the media with his exceptional work habits and his great attitude. 

Where do you think Aiyuk will land? Click to comment below. 

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