The Pittsburgh Steelers, leading AFC team, are considering a trade for star wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, whose contract negotiations with the San Francisco 49ers have hit a standstill. While talks of a trade are ongoing, the imminent NFL draft may delay any potential deal. Reports suggest that the 49ers might trade Aiyuk along with a fourth-round pick to the Steelers in exchange for the Steelers’ No. 20 pick and a third-round pick.
This isn’t the first time the Steelers have been linked to Aiyuk in trade rumors. With recent acquisitions of quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, there’s a clear need for a reliable top-tier receiver. Wilson is slated as the starter, but there’s a quarterback competition between him and Fields.
The Steelers are in need of a receiver after trading Diontae Johnson to the Carolina Panthers earlier in the offseason. Aiyuk seems like a preferable option compared to drafting a wideout this year, given his proven ability as a weapon. He could complement George Pickens, who had a standout season in 2023, leading all wideouts in receiving yards.
However, the 49ers’ General Manager has stated that there are no plans to trade Aiyuk, although his contract situation could lead to a holdout until he receives an extension.
Aiyuk is reportedly seeking compensation commensurate with his performance, especially after his impressive 2023 season alongside Deebo Samuel. He’s eligible for a fifth-year option worth $14.12 million or could potentially command a $96 million deal over four years with a new team.
Top AFC Team Pittsburgh Steelers May Trade For $96 Million Star Brandon Aiyuk in Blockbuster Deal
Teams Could Improve Their Offers
Recent trade activity in the wide receiver market, such as the Buffalo Bills sending Stefon Diggs to the Texans, has stirred speculation and increased offers from other teams. However, it’s uncertain whether this trade will actually materialize, as some sources suggest it may not significantly impact the market value for other potential trades. This distinction arises from the fact that Aiyuk is seeking a new contract, whereas Diggs was traded while still under an existing deal.
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Considering Aiyuk’s strong performance for the 49ers this past season, it seems unlikely that the trade will come to fruition. The team’s recent Super Bowl appearance further complicates the situation, leaving questions about how the 49ers will manage this scenario. There’s been speculation that the team might consider trading Deebo Samuel instead, but this could hinge on Aiyuk’s potential holdout and the team’s desire to secure him on a more favorable contract.
For now, there’s no rush for the 49ers to extend Aiyuk, as they could employ the franchise tag to retain him for another two years. The main concern lies in what Aiyuk might decide to do if the 49ers fail to offer him a new deal in the near future.
Other Possible Trade Destinations
Other potential trade destinations for Brandon Aiyuk could include the Buffalo Bills, the Washington Commanders, or the Los Angeles Chargers. However, it’s likely that discussions regarding this trade will intensify during this year’s draft.
The Bills are facing a significant need for a receiver, especially after losing Gabe Davis to the Jaguars. With only Khalil Shakir, Curtis Samuel, and Mack Hollins as active starting receivers, they are in urgent need of reinforcements.
On the other hand, the Commanders could present an appealing option for the 49ers in a potential trade scenario. Washington might sweeten the deal by offering a wideout like Jahan Dotson along with a draft pick in exchange for Aiyuk.
Similarly, the Chargers are still in the market for a receiver following the departures of Mike Williams and Keenan Allen this offseason. They could enhance their offer by including some draft capital to entice the 49ers.
