NFL Futures: Brandon Aiyuk Trade

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The Pittsburgh Steelers are deep in trade negotiations with the San Francisco 49ers, seeking to secure wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk. 

Despite ongoing negotiations, an agreement has yet to be reached, as the 49ers remain unsatisfied with the Steelers’ current offers. San Francisco is open to exploring other positions besides wide receiver in a potential trade, which could expand the scope of the discussions and their impact on NFL Futures. 

The Impact of Aiyuk

Brandon Aiyuk, who set a career-high with 1,342 receiving yards last season, has been a “hold-in” since the beginning of training camp, participating in team meetings but refraining from on-field activities. 

Although the 49ers have expressed a desire to retain Aiyuk, they have been open to trade discussions, permitting Aiyuk to negotiate a new deal with other teams. This move has spurred interest from multiple franchises, including the Cleveland Browns and New England Patriots. However, the latter has reportedly ended its pursuit due to Aiyuk’s lack of interest in joining them, pointing to their NFL futures improvement.

Why the Steelers? 

The Steelers have emerged as a strong contender for Aiyuk’s services, particularly after trading away former Pro Bowl receiver Diontae Johnson earlier in the offseason. 

With George Pickens leading their receiving corps, the Steelers’ depth chart is thin, creating a clear need for a proven wideout like Aiyuk. However, the question remains whether Pittsburgh can offer a package enticing enough for San Francisco to part with their star receiver.

The Steelers’ best trade assets include George Pickens, who is entering the third year of his rookie deal and has shown tremendous potential. While Pickens could be an appealing option for the 49ers, trading him would leave the Steelers even more uncertain at the wide receiver position. 

Behind Pickens, Van Jefferson and Calvin Austin III are the most promising options, though both have limitations. Jefferson, who had a breakout season in 2021, has struggled to replicate that success. Austin’s diminutive stature and track background might not fit the physical, blocking-oriented style favored by 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan.

Can Pittsburgh go Another Route? 

In addition to their receiving options, the Steelers could offer tight end Pat Freiermuth as part of a trade package. 

Freiermuth is entering the final year of his rookie contract amid extension talks with Pittsburgh. His removal from the roster would be significant, especially given how new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith likes to feature tight ends in his schemes. Alternatively, the Steelers could offer draft capital or other positional players, including linemen, but finding a replacement for Aiyuk’s production remains challenging.