The San Francisco 49ers have one of the most loaded rosters in the league, and rival teams have caught on that paying all that top talent may not be in the cards. According to ESPN's Nick Wagoner, teams have contacted the 49ers in hopes of trading for wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk.
#49ers have received interest in Brandon Aiyuk from teams hoping they can trade for him. But Niners intend to keep Aiyuk.
— Nick Wagoner (@nwagoner) March 27, 2023
They could find themselves in a situation next offseason where they can’t afford two high end WRs (like OT this year) but those decisions will/can wait.
Aiyuk has progressed steadily since entering the league as the 49ers' 25th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, culminating in a 2022 season that included 78 receptions, 1015 yards, and eight receiving touchdowns.
Aiyuk is entering the fourth year of his rookie first-round contract, which makes him eligible for an extension. Unfortunately for him, the 49ers already have massive money tied up in pass catchers Deebo Samuel ($23.85M per year) and George Kittle ($15M per year). He's probably seen as third on the pecking order, and the 49ers are not a pass-heavy team: they ranked 26th in passing attempts last team. Paying three pass catchers top-of-the-market money may not be realistic.
Teams have correctly surmised the 49ers are in a tricky spot with Aiyuk. He has clearly demonstrated significant value, and there's a real chance he could flourish in a more prolific passing attack. There may come a time when the 49ers will struggle to pay for him. Thankfully for them, that time isn't now. He still has two years left at team-friendly rates. Given their Super Bowl window is wide open, they'd be wise to make the most of them.
Photo Credit:© Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports
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