A strange situation unfolded in San Francisco this past week, as 49ers star wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk reportedly demanded a trade as he heads into a contract year.
Those reports of a trade demand were then refuted, and Aiyuk’s status is now unclear, but one of the NFL’s most reputable insiders has some insight into where Aiyuk and the Niners stand.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter said on “NFL Live” today, “I think his desire to get paid is greater than his desire to stay in San Francisco,” via Sharp Football Analysis.
“I think his desire to get paid is greater than his desire to stay in San Francisco” – Adam Schefter
Will Brandon Aiyuk play for the 49ers this season? pic.twitter.com/96AhcC9mAU
— Sharp Football Analysis (@SharpFBAnalysis) April 16, 2024
Last season, Aiyuk led the NFL in yards per reception (17.8), yards per target (12.2), and first-down percentage (83 percent) on his way to a career-high 1,342 yards on 75 catches and seven touchdowns.
Aiyuk is set to make $14.1 million on his fifth-year option as his rookie deal comes to a close and the Niners are loaded with big contracts while still having to prioritize a massive deal for quarterback Brock Purdy in the near future, who is set to make just $985,000 this year.
The idea of eventually having to make a tough decision on Deebo Samuel was floated on “NFL Live,” as the Niners could eventually choose to go with Aiyuk over Samuel if they can’t afford to keep both long-term.
Samuel signed a 3-year, $71.5 million deal in 2022 with the team, while George Kittle and Christian McCaffrey are also in the midst of massive contracts on this offense.
If Aiyuk does wind up on the market, there will be no shortage of teams lining up to trade for him and give him the contract he is looking for.
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Insider Notes Where Things Stand Between Brandon Aiyuk, 49ers