Brandon Aiyuk’s future with the 49ers looks increasingly uncertain.
Initially stirring speculation, Aiyuk unfollowed the 49ers on social media. Adding to the intrigue, Noah Strackbein of AllSteelers reports a potential trade involving Aiyuk to the Pittsburgh Steelers seems likely.
Strackbein shared, “According to a team source, the Steelers and 49ers trade talks are real. While nothing is imminent, they ‘would be surprised if it didn’t happen.’ The discussion hinges on compensation… It feels like a second-round pick and maybe a late-round pick could seal the deal… The timing of the deal remains uncertain, but both sides are actively engaged. It could be resolved during the NFL Draft or possibly after.”
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This scenario aligns with the 49ers’ track record if they cannot agree on a contract extension with Aiyuk, which appears to be the case. The organization is known for being player-friendly; for instance, they released Arik Armstead last month at his request.
The 49ers likely wish to keep their draft strategy under wraps, possibly aiming to select a wide receiver in the first round. Should they secure their target, I anticipate that they will trade Aiyuk to the Steelers shortly thereafter.
This approach mirrors their 2018 strategy when the 49ers kept Trent Brown until after drafting Mike McGlinchey with the 9th pick, only to trade Brown the following day.
It seems the 49ers may employ a similar tactic with Aiyuk this draft season.
