While the San Francisco 49ers have yet to finalize an extension for Brandon Aiyuk, they have consistently expressed their desire to keep the star wide receiver. Despite swirling trade rumors, general manager John Lynch emphasized the team’s intention to retain Aiyuk for the foreseeable future.
“I’ve reiterated our hope that he remains with the Niners for the long term,” Lynch stated, indicating ongoing positive discussions regarding Aiyuk’s future (as reported by ESPN’s Nick Wagoner). “We’re engaged in constructive talks, and I’ll leave it at that.”
When questioned about the possibility of trading Aiyuk during the upcoming draft, Lynch indicated that such a move was unlikely. However, he acknowledged interest from teams in need of wide receivers, with reports suggesting the Pittsburgh Steelers among the suitors for Aiyuk’s services.
Ari Meirov of The33rdTeam.com views the draft as a pivotal moment in the 49ers’ negotiations with Aiyuk.
Drawing parallels to Deebo Samuel’s situation in 2022, where the team rebuffed trade offers before extending him later, Meirov believes that Aiyuk’s presence on the roster post-draft would signal the team’s confidence in securing a new contract.
Currently playing on his fifth-year option, Aiyuk seeks a lucrative extension that reflects his status as one of the league’s premier wideouts. While the 49ers may manage an immediate extension, there are concerns about accommodating Aiyuk’s future cap hits beyond the upcoming season.
If the San Francisco 49ers are unwilling to meet Brandon Aiyuk’s desired contract demands, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport believes that there are other teams in the league willing to offer the wide receiver a substantial payday.
While Rapoport leans towards Aiyuk potentially accepting a slightly reduced salary to remain with the 49ers, he also warns that circumstances could shift rapidly.
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