Brandon Aiyuk Trade Saga Continues: Patriots Out, Steelers Back In
The drama surrounding San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk’s trade request continues to unfold. Just days after reports emerged that the New England Patriots were interested in acquiring Aiyuk, the team has reportedly decided to no longer pursue the receiver. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Patriots are "excited about their young receivers and want to focus on them."
The Patriots had been in talks with the 49ers about a potential trade, but it appears that those discussions have stalled. Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Steelers have re-engaged in trade talks with the 49ers, according to Schefter. The Steelers had previously been mentioned as a potential suitor for Aiyuk, but it was reported that they didn’t meet the 49ers’ asking price in a trade.
Aiyuk, who is set to make $14.1 million in the final year of his rookie deal, is seeking a long-term extension. The 49ers haven’t signed him to that extension, which is why he made a trade request in July. Despite the Patriots’ decision to back off, the expectation remains that Aiyuk will still be dealt. Christian McCaffrey, a former teammate of Aiyuk’s, referred to him as a "former teammate" on an NFL Network interview Tuesday afternoon, suggesting that a trade could still happen.
The 49ers are likely to continue exploring trade options for Aiyuk, and it’s possible that another team could emerge as a suitor in the coming days. With the NFL trade deadline looming, it’s clear that Aiyuk’s future with the 49ers is far from certain.
