The ongoing saga of Brandon Aiyuk is a significant storyline for both the 49ers and the NFL this offseason. Despite recent discussions with San Francisco about a contract, an agreement does not appear to be imminent.
It was confirmed during a recent meeting that Aiyuk is not looking to be traded, and the 49ers have stated that they are not considering moving the 26-year-old receiver out of the Bay Area. However, Aiyuk acknowledges that there is still work to be done to reach a long-term deal.
In a recent podcast appearance, Aiyuk shared, “Throughout this process, there have been times when we’re super close. I’m telling my agent ‘Let me get my suit ready, I’ve got to get it back to the Bay. I got to get right to sign that contract.’ [But] there’s days and times, like in the past month or so, where you could say we’re pretty far apart.”
The primary issue at hand seems to be value, with the 49ers not willing to meet Aiyuk’s asking price. This situation mirrors the negotiation tactics used in the past with Aiyuk’s teammate, Deebo Samuel, whose contract negotiations were similarly contentious.
Despite seeing other receivers like Cooper Kupp, Davante Adams, and Tyreek Hill reset the market, the 49ers were able to sign Samuel to a deal below market value in the end. Now, with Aiyuk, they seem to be following a similar strategy, perhaps focusing more on guarantees rather than annual average value.
As new contracts for other receivers continue to set the market, the 49ers are taking their time in negotiating with Aiyuk, potentially waiting to see if the market changes even further. Aiyuk, on the other hand, believes he has earned a top-tier contract after a strong season.
While negotiations continue, Aiyuk remains firm in his position, unwilling to compromise on what he believes is his value. The dynamics of the negotiation process will likely continue to evolve as both sides seek to reach a mutually beneficial agreement.
Ely Allen contributed to this post.