The San Francisco 49ers are gearing up to start training camp this week, and the burning question on everyone’s mind is whether star wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk will show up despite his trade request. According to CBS Sports lead NFL insider Jonathan Jones, the team is anticipating that Aiyuk will indeed report to training camp.
49ers general manager John Lynch expressed confidence in Aiyuk’s presence, stating, “Brandon’s a big part of our team, and we expect that he will be this year.” Aiyuk is currently under contract for one more season due to the fifth-year option, with a salary of $14.12 million slated for 2024 unless a new agreement is reached between the two parties.
However, just because Aiyuk is expected to attend training camp does not necessarily mean that the situation has been fully resolved. There is a possibility that the All-Pro wide receiver might be staging a “hold in,” where he is physically present but chooses not to participate in on-field activities. Reports from NFL Media indicate that extensive contract discussions have not taken place between the 49ers and Aiyuk since May.
In the 2023 season, Aiyuk had a standout performance, amassing 75 receptions for 1,342 yards and seven touchdowns. His average of 17.9 yards per reception ranked second in the league, and his 3.1 yards per route run was the third-highest rate in the NFL, trailing only Tyreek Hill and Nico Collins. Aiyuk also achieved seven 100-yard games, the most by a 49ers player in a single season since Jerry Rice in 1995.
The recent trade request from Aiyuk came as a result of his frustration with the lack of progress towards a new contract. His contractual situation became more complex as the offseason unfolded, especially after three wide receivers secured extensions surpassing $30 million per year, with Justin Jefferson’s $140 million deal setting a new benchmark at $35 million annually.
John Lynch emphasized the team’s commitment to signing talented players, acknowledging the challenges of contract negotiations but expressing pride in their overall track record. While the situation with Aiyuk remains unresolved, the 49ers are hopeful that his presence at training camp will pave the way for productive discussions and a potential resolution to the contract impasse.