On Tuesday, there were new updates regarding Brandon Aiyuk. The 49ers wide receiver continues his hold-in strategy, while several teams are engaged in trade talks.
It was revealed last night that a preliminary deal was made between San Francisco and both Cleveland and New England. While the Browns and Patriots are key teams to watch, the Steelers have also resumed discussions today, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Pittsburgh has been frequently mentioned as a potential destination for Aiyuk this offseason. The 26-year-old expressed interest in Pittsburgh (along with Washington) but initially suggested he might stay with the 49ers for 2024. Since then, stalled extension talks with San Francisco led to Aiyuk’s formal trade request and hold-in actions.
The Steelers traded Diontae Johnson to the Panthers and released veteran Allen Robinson this offseason. Although they drafted Roman Wilson in the third round, adding another experienced wideout remains a priority. General manager Omar Khan has said that no imminent moves are expected, but Pittsburgh’s continued interest in Aiyuk could lead to a potential deal.
The Patriots are also still in the mix, having shown long-standing interest in Aiyuk. New England previously discussed a trade for Deebo Samuel with the 49ers, but Samuel remains under contract for two more years, whereas Aiyuk is tied to a fifth-year option for the upcoming season. Aiyuk is seeking a long-term deal at a higher price than what San Francisco is willing to offer, making a trade increasingly likely.
Veteran insider Josina Anderson reports that the Patriots haven’t increased their offer recently. The Browns’ potential to acquire Aiyuk would depend on including draft picks and possibly five-time Pro Bowler Amari Cooper, who remains a pending free agent. Adding Cooper could be seen as a win-now move by the 49ers, who are in their Super Bowl window.
NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo suggests that a trade remains a real possibility, noting that a deal seems to be getting closer. No team can be considered completely out of the race, so how the Steelers, Patriots, and Browns proceed will be closely monitored.
Additionally, at least two other teams are believed to be ready to meet Aiyuk’s asking price, which is likely around $30 million per season given the recent trends in the wide receiver market. Aiyuk has preferred destinations but lacks a no-trade clause, so he cannot veto any potential trade. As training camps progress, whether a final trade agreement will be reached remains a key question.
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