Getty Image / Perry Knotts
San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk was as good as gone just a few days ago. It appeared that the team and their star wideout were too far apart on a contract extension, and that he would be traded.
But, Friday saw some pretty crucial developments in the saga. Now, it appears that Brandon Aiyuk may indeed stay with the San Francisco 49ers with a new long-term deal.
Aiyuk had a career year last year in his fourth season in San Francisco. the Arizona State alum and 2020 first-round pick, caught 75 passes for 1,342 yards and 7 touchdowns for arguably the league’s best offense.
That meant that he was due for a big payday, as this year will be the final year of his rookie deal. Brandon Aiyuk, understandably, doesn’t want to play on a rookie deal this year that has no long-term security and could leave him susceptible to the Franchise Tag. But, the 49ers have an aging and expensive roster. They’re going to need cap space in the future to replace some of these older players, and may have to pay quarterback Brock Purdy soon, as well. Thus, the 9ers have been reluctant to pay him a deal similar to the ones that other top receivers like Amon-Ra St. Brown and Justin Jefferson got this offseason.
With Aiyuk clearly on the trading block in recent days, teams like the Browns, Patriots, and especially the Steelers have been linked heavily to him. The 49ers’ asking price has been reportedly high, with reports that they want two first-rounders for him.
Teams have apparently been either unwilling to meet that price or unable to agree with Aiyuk on terms of an extension, as a team won’t give up serious assets for him without that.
Now, it appears that the two sides have re-engaged in contract talks.
“So this is where things stand at the moment: After months of speculation, sporadic negotiations and recent trade talks, the #49ers are pushing to get a deal done that keeps Brandon Aiyuk in San Francisco for the long haul. Nothing done, but finally, things are moving,” NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero said Friday evening.
Other reports like NBC’s Dianna Russini have also confirmed that the two sides are talking again.
It’s important to note that a deal is not done. But, clearly, the 49ers are in win-now mode, and keeping Brandon Aiyuk in the fold could mean they finally get over the Super Bowl hump for the first time in 30 years.