The San Francisco 49ers and Brandon Aiyuk continue to have conversations regarding a new deal, or rather, a path to keep the star wide receiver in the Bay Area. The last conversations between both parties had reportedly gone well, but Aiyuk continues to hint at a potential trade target on social media.
Aiyuk initially showcased a conversation between him and the Washington Commanders’ quarterback Jayden Daniels, which showcased the 49ers receiver stating, “They don’t want me back, man.” Though this conversation sparked plenty of rumors, Aiyuk continued to reveal that he would love to play for the NFC East team.
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When asked where he could see himself playing in the future, Aiyuk stated on “The Pivot Podcast”, “Probably a Niner uniform. If not a Niners uniform, probably a Washington Commanders uniform. If not a Washington Commanders uniform, probably a Steelers uniform.”
Now, Aiyuk has given his biggest clue yet that he would love to suit up for the Commanders.
A screenshot was taken from a post by Aiyuk, showcasing him watching film from the Commanders. This could easily just be him having a fascination with the team and friend Daniels, but the continued linking between the 49ers receiver and Commanders is starting to get a bit more believable.
As stated, Aiyuk set up a meeting with the 49ers in hopes that both parties could come to some sort of consensus on a deal. Whether that deal were to happen before the start of the 2024 season or later, common ground would need to be found.
Reports indicated that the conversations between Aiyuk and the 49ers brass had gone well, but there continues to be evidence hinting that a potential trade could happen.
The talks between Aiyuk and the 49ers might have also helped in giving the team more information about what the receiver is looking for, contract-wise. Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk indicated the organization offered Aiyuk a contract in the $26 million per year range, which would have placed him in the top 10 of highest-paid receivers.
This deal was nowhere near what Aiyuk wanted, as he rejected the offer. The 49ers are likely not wanting to pay him $30 million per year, but maybe the Commanders would. The team and Aiyuk could be at an impasse, and San Francisco might now be exploring an option where they just get some quality draft picks for the four-year veteran.
This is just speculation, but Aiyuk continues to fuel the flames of rumors that he will be in a Commanders uniform sooner rather than later.
Uncommon Knowledge
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Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.