Brandon Aiyuk Trade Request Fuels Wild Landing Spot Speculation

If the San Francisco 49ers elect to fulfill wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk's request to be traded, a couple teams make the most logical sense. But that didn't stop fans and even NFL media personalities on social media from speculating that Aiyuk could possibly land with a bunch of different teams.

The wild speculation began after NFL Network's Mike Garafolo reported Tuesday that Aiyuk has officially requested to be traded from the 49ers.

"Source: 49ers All-Pro WR Brandon Aiyuk has officially requested a trade after an offseason of unsuccessful attempts to reach an extension," wrote Garafolo on X (formerly Twitter).

"Despite a recent meeting, the Niners haven't been willing to engage in negotiations since May, so Aiyuk has respectfully asked out."

If Aiyuk is traded, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Washington Commanders are two of the more logical destinations for him.

The Steelers have been connected to Aiyuk the entire offseason. NFL insider Michael Lombardi reported while appearing on the GM Shuffle podcast on May 30 that the Steelers nearly traded for Aiyuk during the first round of the 2024 NFL draft.

ESPN's Adam Schefter reported in June that the Commanders had conversations with the 49ers about an Aiyuk trade.

But fans on social media also proposed the possibility of Aiyuk landing with several other teams, including the New England Patriots, Denver Broncos, New York Jets, Atlanta Falcons, Detroit Lions and Baltimore Ravens.

Aiyuk posted a career-high 1,342 receiving yards and 17.9 yards per catch in 16 games during the 2023 season. He also had 75 receptions and seven touchdowns.

The 26-year-old receiver is set to be an unrestricted free agent next offseason and requested a trade from the 49ers because he is searching for a new contract before the start of the 2024 season.