2 weeks Ago
The San Francisco 49ers are holding onto standout wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk after all. After weeks (months?) of rumors that Aiyuk might be traded, most likely to the Pittsburgh Steelers, San Francisco signed the 2020 first-round pick to a four-year contract extension reportedly worth up to $120 million. This is probably the best possible outcome for all parties involved, except for the Steelers.
Interestingly, NFL insider Dianna Russini said Thursday night that Pittsburgh almost wound up landing Aiyuk, but a corresponding move fell through. According to Russini, San Francisco offered a third-round pick for Denver Broncos wide receiver Courtland Sutton. Had the Broncos accepted the offer, Aiyuk would be wearing black and gold.
"The 49ers only were willing to trade Brandon Aiyuk if they could get a top-flight WR to replace him," Russini tweeted . "They offered a third-round pick to Denver for Courtland Sutton, and then would’ve dealt Aiyuk to the Steelers, but the Broncos declined the offer. So, he stays in SF.
" Robin Alam/ISI Photos/Getty Images Aiyuk has transformed into a budding star over the last two seasons. In 2023, he logged a career-high 1,342 receiving yards and earned second-team All-Pro honors. Aiyuk added another 149 yards and a touchdown on nine catches in three postseason games as well, helping San Francisco reach Super Bowl LVIII.
His return further solidifies the 49ers as Super Bowl contenders again in 2023. Now, all San Francisco must do is get star left tackle Trent Williams' contract worked out. The 49ers will open the 2024 season on Monday Night Football against the New York Jets on Sept.
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