Brandon Aiyuk to Report to 49ers Training Camp
San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk will report to training camp, putting a dent in the chances of the Steelers trading for him.
San Francisco 49ers star wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk will report to his team’s training camp this week, according to a report by Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, putting a big dent in the Pittsburgh Steelers chances of landing him in a trade.
Aiyuk has formally requested a trade from the 49ers, and there have not been substantive talks between hm and the club since May. Aiyuk is seeking a contract extension instead of playing out the fifth-year option of his rookie contract in 2024. He would be able to be fined if he refused to report for training camp.
It’s unclear if he will participate in practice after reporting to training camp.
Aiyuk officially requested a trade on July 16, which was an escalation from the previous standoff, but it does not appear that he will continue to escalate the conflict by refusing to report or play.
The 49ers have steadfastly said that they hope to sign Aiyuk to a contract extension and do not wish to trade him. The 2023 NFC champs have little reason to do so. It’s unlikely the Steelers or any other team would be able to offer a package in return that would improve San Francisco’s chances of getting back to the Super Bowl and winning it this time.
If Aiyuk plays the 2024 season, the 49ers could even hit him with the franchise tag next offseason, starting the contract standoff anew. Him holding out is likely a prerequisite for a trade this offseason, and him reporting is a blow to the chances of Aiyuk suiting up for another squad anytime soon.
Should the 49ers decide to make a trade, the Steelers have been listed as the favorites to land Aiyuk, at +400, according to Bookies.com. The Washington Commanders have also been put forward as a potential landing spot, thanks to the relationship between Aiyuk and D.C. quarterback Jayden Daniels from their time at Arizona State.
The Steelers have been in the market for a wide receiver since trading Diontae Johnson to the Carolina Panthers earlier this offseason, and have shown interest in many of the top receivers available in the trade market, but have yet to be able to make a move.
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