49ers insider provides latest update on Aiyuk as trade rumors grow originally appeared in NBC Sports Boston
The San Francisco 49ers came very close to winning the Super Bowl with their current core. In the last five years, they have lost twice to the Kansas City Chiefs in the Super Bowl (2019 and 2023) and have also been defeated twice in the NFC Championship Game (2021 and 2022).
They still have one of the best rosters in the league. But the window to compete for the Lombardi Trophy is not always long. San Francisco has to take advantage of this moment.
This is important to keep in mind during the Brandon Aiyuk saga. The star wants a new contract as he enters the final year of his debut contract. The 49ers have already committed a lot of salary to other players, especially on offense.
If the two sides are unable to agree on an extension, a trade may be the most logical path forward. But the 49ers can’t afford to weaken their roster too much, so if they move Aiyuk, getting a player in return who can help them next season would be a huge advantage.
So where are things with Aiyuk now?
Matt Maiocco, NBC Sports Bay Area 49ers insider joined NBC Sports Boston Arbella Early Edition on Monday with the latest update.
“What I would say is that the most likely scenario, and the scenario that the 49ers would like to play, would be the Cleveland Browns, because the Browns have someone they can offer in exchange for Brandon Aiyuk, in addition to draft picks, who could step in. and help the 49ers get to where they want to be, which is the Super Bowl,” Maiocco said.
“The Cleveland wide receiver I’m referring to is Amari Cooper. When you look at the other teams that could be in the mix, the Patriots, who would they have to offer? Now, how’s Kendrick’s knee? How is he? The 49ers know him. But is he on Brandon Aiyuk’s level?
“So they would have to give the 49ers more compensation in terms of draft picks than what Cleveland gives the 49ers. And another team I’m listening to is the Pittsburgh Steelers. What do they have? Not much. So that would almost have to be made. will all be draft picks.
“So I think it’s still a very fluid situation for the 49ers and Aiyuk. All this offseason, I’ve been saying there’s no way the 49ers would trade Aiyuk because of where they are in the Super Bowl window. weaken the team. They cannot take a step back. But right now, the way things are going, I think it’s in play for Brandon Aiyuk to be traded, I don’t know, for a very short period of time. of time, I believe.”
Another important part of this situation is that Aiyuk needs to figure out what he wants.
“Ultimately, what is he going to do? What will he value?” Maiocco said. “The opportunity to potentially win a Super Bowl this year with a team that he knows very well, the 49ers, where he’s certainly not the only star on that team? the No. 1 guy on offense So it really depends on him.”
The Cleveland Browns have a chance to be competitive in the AFC. The Steelers have some good pieces, but also a lot of uncertainty at quarterback. The Patriots are a rebuilding team with their own issues at quarterback.
What kind of fit would Aiyuk be in New England if the Patriots and 49ers were able to reach an agreement?
“I think he’s a good fit anywhere,” Maiocco said. “He’s a good runner. He’s got good hands, he’s gotten better every year he’s been in the league. The thing with him is he’s been, in a lot of ways, maybe the No. 4 that teams have been planning games against ever since.” he’s with the 49ers.
“What would he be like as the person who is the focal point of an offense where teams are trying to take him away? I think he would be fine.”
The Patriots could absolutely use a highly skilled and physical wideout like Aiyuk. He is much, much better than any wide receiver currently on their depth chart. Aiyuk set a career high with 1,342 receiving yards last season, along with 75 receptions and seven touchdowns.
Acquiring a player of his caliber would be a huge upgrade to the Patriots’ offense and would ultimately give them a high-skill player that opposing defenses need to be aware of at all times.
