Why 49ers have 'slight edge' to sign superstar receiver long-term, per insider

Every day is another odyssey in the 2024 preseason for the San Francisco 49ers.

As defending conference champions, the 49ers have all the ingredients for another deep postseason run in 2024. But the possibility of one of their best players walking to another team because of contract disagreements has thrown the entire thing off its axis.

Fifth-year wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, who is entering the final season of his rookie contract with the 49ers, has been the subject of swirling rumors for months. He is seeking a long-term extension, and he and the 49ers have been unable to agree to terms on a new deal.

The standoff has long been at a point where a trade is also considered a legitimate possibility, with the Pittsburgh Steelers thought to be the favorites to land Aiyuk if a deal goes down. However, one insider believes the odds are headed in the other direction.

ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reported on SportsCenter Saturday morning that he believes the odds are currently in favor of Aiyuk returning to the 49ers on a long-term contract.

"Sources I've talked to that thought maybe this was a coin flip a week ago believe that San Francisco probably has a slight edge, maybe 60-40, something like that," Fowler said.

Fowler also said the executives he has talked to believe Aiyuk's eventual extension, whether with the 49ers or elsewhere, will be in the range of $30 million per year. However, the money doesn't seem to be the only holdup.

"I'm told he's got some needs that need to be met in that contract that have not yet, so they're trying to hash that out," Fowler said.

Aiyuk, 26, is a blossoming superstar in the NFL. His 2023 breakout campaign featured 1,342 receiving yards, seven touchdowns, a signature catch in the NFC Championship against the Detroit Lions, and a second-team All-Pro selection.

Until the Aiyuk situation is resolved, few other things will matter in San Francisco. But maybe the tide is finally starting to turn in the right direction.

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