While the San Francisco 49ers have not publicly stated that Brandon Aiyuk is available for trade, there is a sense around the league that he could be on the trade block.
Recent reports suggest that a former teammate of Aiyuk has reached out to encourage him to consider joining the New England Patriots.
Negotiations between the 49ers and Aiyuk for a long-term contract are reportedly not progressing well.
Despite the team’s statement last month that they have no intentions of trading Aiyuk, there are indications that they may explore trade options closer to the 2024 NFL Draft.
Aiyuk is seeking a contract that reflects his value as a top-tier wide receiver, which could amount to around $30 million per year. However, the 49ers do not currently view him as a player worth that level of compensation.
With quarterback Brock Purdy’s impending contract extension in the 2025 offseason, the 49ers are facing the reality that they may not be able to retain all of their key players.
While the Pittsburgh Steelers have been suggested as a potential trade partner for Aiyuk, it appears that there could be interest from another team as well. According to reports from 49ers Webzone, former 49ers wide receiver Kendrick Bourne reached out to Aiyuk on social media expressing his desire to reunite with him in New England.
Bourne, who was a popular figure among fans in the Bay Area, attempted to recruit Aiyuk via Instagram. The two players were teammates in 2020, which was Bourne’s final year with the 49ers before he signed with the Patriots.
The Patriots present an enticing option for Aiyuk’s camp. With the expectation that the Patriots will select a quarterback with the No. 3 pick in the draft, Aiyuk could provide valuable support for a rookie quarterback on a roster in need of a reliable pass catcher.
Aiyuk has experienced success in his two best seasons as a professional while playing alongside Brock Purdy in his rookie year (2022) and his second season (2023), indicating his ability to build rapport with young quarterbacks.
Given the circumstances, would the 49ers consider trading Aiyuk in exchange for the 34th overall pick in the draft from the Patriots?
