One of the biggest questions in the NFL right now is what the San Francisco 49ers are going to do with All-Pro receiver Brandon Aiyuk.
The former Arizona State star has been the subject of trade talks this offseason.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport appeared on NFL Total Access Wednesday morning to provide an update on the situation out in the Bay Area.
“The 49ers are moving forward with Brandon Aiyuk on their roster…They have been in contract negotiations…The focus is on bringing him back next season,” Rapoport told viewers.
From @NFLTotalAccess: The #49ers’ focus remains on keeping star WR Brandon Aiyuk — as it was during the NFL Draft. It’s about getting a well-earned extension done, at this point. pic.twitter.com/hehKGqbE2Z
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) May 8, 2024
If they do indeed bring him back, it can’t be argued about how good of a move it is.
Aiyuk is coming off of back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons, and he had his best overall season in 2023.
He set career-highs in receiving yards (1,342), yards per game (83.9), yards per reception (17.9), and catch percentage (71.4%).
While Deebo Samuel might be the team’s do-it-all receiver, Aiyuk is the team’s best, prototypical receiver.
He can line up anywhere on the field and has elite footwork that allows him to break free from defenders.
If San Francisco can strike terms on a contract extension, they should be considered the Super Bowl favorites in the NFC.
With no trade rumors swirling around Samuel at the moment either, the 49ers appear to be ready to run it all back this season.
With franchise quarterback Brock Purdy leading the way, along with All-Pro skill players in Christian McCaffrey, George Kittle, Samuel, and Aiyuk, this team is still great enough to bring a championship back to the Bay.
