Speculation about Brandon Aiyuk’s future with the San Francisco 49ers has been swirling, with rumors suggesting he might be traded this offseason. However, star player Deebo Samuel doesn’t foresee Aiyuk leaving the Bay Area anytime soon.
During an appearance on “Up and Adams” this week, Samuel expressed his affection for Aiyuk and indicated his belief that the front office won’t trade his co-star.
“Yeah, I love that guy,” Samuel said. “I don’t see him leaving, though.”
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Samuel also shared that he offered Aiyuk advice ahead of his contract negotiations, acknowledging the challenges that come with seeking a new deal in the NFL.
“If you look at his numbers from when he got to the league and now, it’s always a different type of leap,” Samuel said. “And so, like I told him, I said, ‘Hey, man, you put yourself in a position to be where you want to be.’ He’s up for a new deal and things like that. And I just told him, because I’ve been through it, it’s not going to be all fine and dandy like you think it’s going to be. You’ve got to stay the course. You done did everything possible that you did for you to be in a position that you be in, and just let everything play out.”
Aiyuk had an impressive season with the 49ers, earning recognition as a second-team All-Pro after recording 75 receptions for 1,342 yards and seven touchdowns.
While the 49ers may need to consider exploring the trade market if they can’t secure a long-term agreement with Aiyuk, it appears that, for now, the plan is to retain him.