With all the speculation about the possibility of a blockbuster trade sending star wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk out of San Francisco, it now appears that he could be staying put. The two sides have been in a contract dispute all offseason, leading to the idea that Aiyuk could be moved.
In recent days, progress has been made on a trade to send Aiyuk to multiple AFC teams. The Pittsburgh Steelers, New England Patriots, and Cleveland Browns were among the most known suitors. But now, according to insider Jordan Schultz, it seems that Aiyuk may be staying with the 49ers after all.
Schultz reported that the two sides had a sit-down meeting to express all thoughts regarding the situation. With this, negotiations on a long-term deal to keep the star wide-out in San Francisco have begun.
Sources: #49ers star WR Brandon Aiyuk recently had a sit-down meeting with Kyle Shanahan and others in the organization where “some open and candid thoughts were expressed.” The two sides have since restarted negotiations on a long-term deal and there is some optimism that Aiyuk… pic.twitter.com/8HE6DSzFV2
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) August 9, 2024
If the 49ers elect to keep Aiyuk, it would keep their Super Bowl window alive. He has been one of the more important pieces to the team in recent years and has continued to improve his game each season.
Last season, Aiyuk posted 75 catches for 1,342 yards and seven touchdowns. He was a massive reason why the 49ers reached the Super Bowl again this past season
Like with any trade talks or contract negotiations, the entire situation remains fluid. Just a few days ago, it seemed that Aiyuk was heading out of town and now the 49ers may be keeping a key piece to the puzzle.
Schultz also reported that the Browns are now under the impression that they are unlikely to acquire Aiyuk’s services, further pushing the narrative for him to stay put in San Francisco.
It’s also my understanding that the #Browns, who have been in pursuit of Brandon Aiyuk, are under the impression that they are unlikely to acquire him in a trade, per multiple sources.
Situation remains ongoing, but Aiyuk staying with the #49ers is very much in play again. https://t.co/ewsZtG1Qkt
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) August 9, 2024
49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan opened up to ESPN about the Aiyuk situation recently, saying he was hoping that things would work out between the two sides.
“It’s been at this point for a little bit, so nothing really new to me,” Shanahan added, via Wagoner. “mean you’re always disappointed when you can’t keep hold of all your players or it’s not going exactly right. I don’t like losing anybody, so that’s why I’m hoping it does work out here, but right now we don’t have that solved yet. So, I hope it does.”
Aiyuk has been participating in a “hold-in” at training camp, meaning that he is present but not participating in any on-field drills. He wants everything settled, regardless of how it gets settled, before joining in with the team.
For now, it seems that the 49ers may be able to keep their star. There is still the process of the negotiations but this is a positive step forward.
More news: 49ers Sign Veteran Wide Receiver Amid Brandon Aiyuk Trade Speculation
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