When news broke in the second round that the San Francisco 49ers and Pittsburgh Steelers had agreed to a trade, it looked like wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk was on his way out again.
Aiyuk has been asking to be traded for weeks after failing to come to an agreement with the 49ers on the type of big contract extension he was demanding, and about a week ago, they began seriously considering trade offers for him.
However, there is no certainty that it will be negotiated, as the team is not far apart on an extension agreement, according to Mike Garafolo.
Two people familiar with the matter @nflnetwork: also #49ers Brandon Aiyuk isn't too far off on the deal, which is why he's not pushing for either. #Steelers Ayuk still hopes he can overcome one final hurdle in the negotiations. pic.twitter.com/hyJvFckRrn
-Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) August 13, 2024
Garofalo also said that Aiyuk would prefer to stay in San Francisco and that he is making the best of time.
Getting that extension is seen as vital to the championship hopes of the Niners, who have not won the Vince Lombardi Trophy since the 1994 season and have lost their last three Super Bowl appearances.
Aiyuk led the Niners in receptions and touchdowns last season, and at 26, he can probably continue to grow and improve even more in the years to come.
If we are willing to negotiate this issue, we certainly have a broad, legitimate interest in a new exchange, or that may be part of the obstacle to a resolution of this saga now.
If negotiated, it will be necessary to make a joint effort to replace your production over time.
the next:
Former player Brandon Aiyuk in two contract reports
