Mystery has been the theme for the San Francisco 49ers in the 2024 offseason, and that theme is continuing.
After a second Super Bowl defeat to the Kansas City Chiefs in the past five seasons, the 49ers are anxious to right the wrongs of the end to their 2023 season. But they have also had to plan for the possibility that one of their best weapons won't be there to help.
Star wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, who led the 49ers in receiving yards last season, has been holding out for a new contract all summer. He and San Francisco have been engaged in a stalemate of late, sparking trade speculation and reports that deals are in place to send him elsewhere.
On Tuesday, the picture became a little more clear about Aiyuk's potential next team, and where he currently stands with the 49ers' front office.
According to NFL insider Ian Rapoport, the 49ers are prepared to trade Aiyuk to the Pittsburgh Steelers if he does not accept their long-term offer.
"The Steelers and #49ers have a deal on a potential trade and PIT is in a good place on an Aiyuk contract, sources say. If SF gives the final sign-off, it's done," Rapoport tweeted. "SF has an offer out to Aiyuk on a long-term deal for him to stay. He hasn't accepted."
The dual update makes it clear that the decision really is up to Aiyuk at this point. With under four weeks to go before the 49ers' season opener, Aiyuk must determine how long it makes sense to hold out for the contract he wants, and where he wants to play in 2024 and beyond.
2023 was Aiyuk's breakout season in San Francisco. He took home second-team All-Pro honors with a 1,342-yard, seven-touchdown season. In a loaded 49ers receiving corps, Aiyuk stood out as the top pass-catching option for the first time in his career.
If Aiyuk plays out the 2024 season under his current deal, he will make $14.1 million, per the club option the 49ers accepted in the spring. Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated reported Monday that the Steelers' offer to Aiyuk was in the neighborhood of $28 million annually.
Time is ticking. Until Aiyuk makes up his mind regarding the situation, there doesn't appear to be much either team can do about planning their passing attack this season.
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