Brandon Aiyuk Requests Trade from San Francisco 49ers
In a shocking move, Brandon Aiyuk, the star wide receiver for the San Francisco 49ers, has asked for a trade after failing to reach an agreement on a contract extension with the team. According to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo, Aiyuk and team brass met recently, but the Niners haven’t been willing to engage in negotiations since May.
Aiyuk, 26, has been with the 49ers his entire career, drafted by the team with the 25th overall pick in 2020. He has produced for the team, with 269 receptions for 3,931 yards and 25 touchdowns over his four-year career. Aiyuk has consistently improved his game every season, taking a huge jump forward when Brock Purdy ascended to the starting quarterback position in 2022.
In his first two seasons with the Niners, Aiyuk tallied 118 receptions for 1,574 yards and 10 touchdowns. However, in his two most recent seasons, he has tallied 153 receptions for 2,357 yards and 15 touchdowns, showcasing his growth as a player.
Despite Aiyuk’s desire to leave, it’s unclear if any NFL team would be willing to pay the likely astronomical price tag for his services. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that the Niners have no intention of trading Aiyuk anywhere.
Aiyuk’s teammate, Deebo Samuel, requested a trade in 2022 but ultimately signed a three-year, $73.5 million extension and didn’t miss a game. The 49ers have also placed first-round rookie wide receiver Ricky Pearsall on the active/non-football injury list.
For the right price, the Niners could be convinced to part with Aiyuk. However, considering how well he works in their schemes, it’s unclear if any team would be willing to meet the 49ers’ demands.
