It doesn't sound like a matter of if, but when San Francisco 49ers star Brandon Aiyuk is going to be traded... and the Patriots are among the favorites to land him.
San Francisco reportedly allowed Aiyuk an opportunity to negotiate potential contract extensions with other teams, the most enticing of which came from New England. The Patriots have sent the full trade/extension offer to the 49ers, and essentially are awaiting a decision from the 26-year-old.
It's the type of deal that could completely transform the Patriots' wide receiver room, having a trickle-down effect on those currently vying for a roster spot. How do those roster-bubble guys feel about the potential move?
"We're just focused on the players that are here right now," Tyquan Thornton said after practice Tuesday. "I don't know anything about that."
Thornton looks to have a pretty good hold on a roster spot, having surpassed any and all expectations during his third training camp -- despite a soft tissue injury that sidelined him for one practice. It's clear his focus is on continuing to build on his positive momentum, as that answer essentially followed in the footsteps of Jerod Mayo's from prior to practice.
The Patriots will be thrilled to finalize a move if Aiyuk agrees, but the ball currently is in his court. Thornton and the rest of his teammates will have to operate business as usual until a move, if any, is made.
