The 2024 NFL season is just around the corner, and while teams are busy preparing and staying healthy, some intriguing drama is unfolding in the league.
In the spotlight: 49ers’ Brandon Aiyuk Turns Down Trade to Browns for Amari Cooper.
The Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves at the center of the buzz, particularly with All-Pro wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk potentially on the move from the San Francisco 49ers. Aiyuk’s absence from training camp has raised eyebrows, leaving fans to speculate whether a trade is imminent or if the 49ers will meet his demands.
As the situation develops, Steelers wide receiver Van Jefferson took a moment to shine a light on Aiyuk’s impressive talent and what his arrival could mean for the team. “If he joins us, we’ll welcome him with open arms. If not, we’ll keep pushing forward. He’s a phenomenal player, and we’re focused on the present,” Jefferson said.
Photo by Michael Zagaris/San Francisco 49ers/Getty Images
The 49ers are holding off on trading Aiyuk, not wanting to overspend. He’s looking for a deal around $30 million per year, comparable to contracts signed by fellow players.
Rumors suggest that the Steelers are making a strong push to land Aiyuk. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Pittsburgh has stepped up with a compelling trade offer for the receiver.
“At one point, he seemed destined for the Cleveland Browns, and the New England Patriots were also in the hunt, but now Pittsburgh appears to be the frontrunner. They’ve made a significant trade and contract offer to Aiyuk. The direction of this is still unclear,” Rapoport reported.
In other news: 49ers’ Management Makes Major Moves to Retain Brandon Aiyuk.
Interestingly, the 49ers are not rolling over; they’ve recently resumed talks with Aiyuk to secure him long-term. But with both the Steelers and the 49ers in play, the future of Brandon Aiyuk remains uncertain. Whether he’ll be in red and gold or black and yellow by Week 1 is still anyone’s guess.