Why Warner Sees 49ers Aiyuk Situation as a “Good Question to Have” originally appeared in NBC Sports Bay Area
Contract negotiations can understandably be a headache in the NFL.
Look no further than the extensive drama all around Brandon Aiyuk Desired Extension with the 49ers, who reached a critical point last week with your reported trade request.
However, San Francisco linebacker Fred Warner is looking on the bright side of these controversies, which have become practically an annual occurrence in the Bay Area.
“When you’re part of such a talented cast, I feel like that’s something that happens every season,” Warner said. 95.7 “Willard and Dibs” game on Monday. “It’s a good question because obviously it means your players are performing at such a high level that you need to have that kind of conversation.”
The 49ers have no shortage of top guys players in their respective positions, so elite talent will inevitably have to pay a high price to stay. Aiyuk, Ranked as one of the 10 best receivers in the NFL, it is no exception to this rule.
However, San Francisco benefits from a lot of experience in this exact situation. In recent seasons, the organization has successfully re-signed Nick Bosa, Fred Warner and fellow receiver Deebo Samuel after lengthy disputes.
Not only could this be beneficial to the 49ers front office, but it is also vital familiarity for the players, as Warner noted.
“It’s part of the business and we all let them handle it,” Warner explained. “And when he comes back, he’ll be back. We’ll welcome him with open arms.”
That comment suggests that Aiyuk’s conflict hasn’t caused any disruption in San Francisco’s locker room, which is a good sign for the team heading into training camp, which begins Tuesday. After all, George Kittle publicly expressed his support Monday for his teammate’s desire to get paid.
However, it remains to be seen how this saga between the 49ers and their star receiver ends.
