A few NFL teams showed interest in San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk before the recent NFL draft. One of these teams was the New England Patriots, who reportedly offered a second-round pick for Aiyuk. However, the 49ers were not willing to part ways with him for that price.
In addition to the Patriots, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Washington Commanders were also eyeing Aiyuk before the draft and may still be interested in acquiring him.
Aiyuk recently requested a trade from the 49ers as he enters the final year of his rookie contract in 2024. He is seeking a lucrative contract extension, and it seems that he is open to getting it from another team if necessary.
Despite having positive meetings with the 49ers this offseason, Aiyuk has not yet received the contract he desires. Before the draft, five teams were reportedly willing to offer him up to $28 million, a number that could have increased given the recent big contracts signed by other wide receivers.
As the 49ers approach the start of training camp, the ongoing contract negotiations with Aiyuk could become a major issue. If he decides to hold out over his extension, it could potentially impact the team’s performance in the upcoming season.
Aiyuk was a key player for the 49ers last season, leading the team in receiving yards with 1,342 and tying for the most receiving touchdowns with seven. At just 26 years old, he is expected to have another strong season ahead, and San Francisco is hoping that he will continue to excel while playing for them.