Brandon Aiyuk reportedly requested a trade last week, and the Patriots apparently were quick to reach out to the 49ers.
Unsurprisingly, New England wasn’t alone.
Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio shared a new Aiyuk report Saturday, revealing five NFL teams were willing to pay the star wide receiver what he coveted before the 2024 draft. Florio also shed some light on Aiyuk’s market, which includes the Commanders and the Steelers in addition to the Patriots.
Washington’s reported interest in Aiyuk checks out. Like New England, the Commanders made a first-round investment in their hopeful franchise quarterback of the future (Jayden Daniels) and surely want to surround him with high-end talent. Pittsburgh, meanwhile, parted ways with its former No. 1 receiver, Diontae Johnson, over the offseason and might view Aiyuk as an ideal new running mate for George Pickens.
Unfortunately for all interested teams, an Aiyuk trade doesn’t appear likely. The Niners don’t seem interested in dealing the 2023 Second Team All-Pro, and even if they were shopping him more actively, the price would be steep.
So, don’t be surprised if Aiyuk resumes catching passes from Brock Purdy come Week 1. The 49ers should be all-in on their pursuit of a Super Bowl LIX title, and Aiyuk figures to be a big part of that gameplan.
