Team That Offered Brandon Aiyuk The Most Money Revealed (And Their Trade Offer)

The Cleveland Browns made a substantial effort to acquire San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, reportedly offering him the most lucrative contract among all suitors. 

According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Browns were prepared to outbid both the 49ers and the Pittsburgh Steelers, leveraging their recent salary cap boost from restructuring quarterback Deshaun Watson's contract. 

This move gave Cleveland over $35 million in financial flexibility, which they were willing to use to secure Aiyuk, highlighting their strong desire to enhance their receiving corps with his talent.

"The hold up with Cleveland all along has been Brandon Aiyuk's willingness to accept a trade to the Browns..

The contract would've been done there if he wanted to go..

The compensation would've been done there if he wanted to go" ~ @AdamSchefter #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/MGpYYIvfes

— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) August 29, 2024

Despite the Browns' aggressive approach and the financial incentive on the table, Aiyuk declined the opportunity to join the team. 

Trade discussions between Cleveland and San Francisco were intense, with a potential deal in early August that would have seen Amari Cooper and future draft picks sent to the 49ers in exchange for Aiyuk. 

However, the trade ultimately fell through not due to issues with cap space or compensation but because Aiyuk was unwilling to relocate to Cleveland.

Aiyuk has since signed a 4-year, $120M extension ($30M AAV) with the 49ers.

Photo Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports