Steelers Considered 'Likely Destination' For 49ers' Aiyuk

The Pittsburgh Steelers are once again in the headlines in the Brandon Aiyuk sweepstakes. Trade rumors have been swirling all offseason about this trade. A new report from NFL Insider Ian Rapoport on NFL Gameday Kickoff, however, indicates things might be closer than we think.

“Now it seems the Pittsburgh Steelers are the most likely destination,” Rapoport said. “They made a strong trade offer and they have made a strong contract to Brandon Aiyuk.”

This report sounds promising; however, there are other sources indicating that Aiyuk and the 49ers have re-engaged contract discussions to keep him in the Bay Area.

The former Sun Devil is their leading receiver, and only 26 years old. It would be in the best interest of the 49ers to keep him with their Super Bowl window still very much wide open.

If they are unable to come to a deal, then the Pittsburgh scenario appears to be the last one on the table. The New England Patriots bowed out of the trade discussions and the former No. 25 overall pick shut down a potential trade to the Browns.

Related: Steelers Rookie Tackle Troy Fautanu Injured In Debut

The Steelers are now the only game in town if the 49ers and Aiyuk can’t figure out their situation.

This has been one of the most intense, and wildly public, negotiations we’ve seen in quite some time. Aiyuk has used everything in his power to sway public opinion, but at the end of the day, money heals all wounds.