As training camp approaches, the San Francisco 49ers have yet to reach an agreement with wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk on a long-term extension.
That’s led to continued speculation that the 2023 second-team All-Pro could be on the move between now and the start of the season.
The latest update regarding Aiyuk’s uncertain future comes as a result of a meeting the 26-year-old requested with San Francisco, which reportedly took place on Monday. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the 49ers turned down the opportunity to trade the Arizona State product to the Washington Commanders — where he would reunite with his former college quarterback, Jayden Daniels — in hopes of securing a long-term deal.
Thus far, however, such a deal has yet to be reached. According to Schefter, the gap between the two sides is due to Aiyuk viewing himself as a No. 1 wide receiver, while San Francisco is approaching the negotiations from the perspective of him being a No. 2.
“Adam Schefter said this: “WAS interested (in trade for Aiyuk) but SF decided not to do that deal”
“In the contract negotiation, they’re treating Aiyuk like he’s a high-level no2, when other teams try to trade for Aiyuk, SF acts like he’s an elite WR who’s worth a 1st and more” https://t.co/wC2QLI1MZY
— Sigmund Bloom (@SigmundBloom) June 25, 2024
That’s not necessarily surprising considering the unique nature of the 49ers’ offense. While Aiyuk has been San Francisco’s leading receiver the last two seasons, he has also benefitted from the presence of fellow playmakers Deebo Samuel, George Kittle and Christian McCaffrey. It’s also worth noting that quarterback Brock Purdy will be due for an extension after the 2024 season and is expected to become one of the NFL’s highest paid players.
But regardless of where he ranks in the 49ers’ pecking order, Aiyuk is universally viewed as one of the league’s top receivers. And unsurprisingly, many were quick to weigh in on the latest update regarding the ongoing negotiations.
This makes sense for SF lol
In SF, he is a high level #2 behind Deebo.
In most other situations, Washington for example, he’d be an easy #1 https://t.co/O74IG4hMxV
— kidtp24 (@Mr_Tyler_K) June 25, 2024
Sounds like every dynasty fantasy manager. https://t.co/NXfBNAsUm2
— Jeff Bell (@4WhomJBellTolls) June 25, 2024
Fantasy Football trade negotiations in a nutshell https://t.co/cPkTd0fDrs
— Marco Enriquez (@Marco_NFL) June 25, 2024
I hate the way this front office negotiates https://t.co/j4Ng4Edn12
— jak (@pepperjakcheese) June 25, 2024
So they’re losing him for nothing next off season then…. https://t.co/kJ0OuMBKdS
— Josh (@90_Joshb) June 25, 2024
