“Brandon Aiyuk Trade Drama: Steelers Emerge as Top Contender After Patriots Pull Out”
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the New England Patriots have pulled out of the race for Brandon Aiyuk. The Pittsburgh Steelers and Cleveland Browns are still in contention, but Aiyuk seems determined to join the Steelers, while the 49ers are holding out for the right trade offer.
The trade talks between the Steelers and 49ers have been ongoing for months, but only recently have the 49ers become open to these discussions. Pittsburgh is now the leading candidate, as Aiyuk has the ability to veto any trade.
Aiyuk aims to be one of the top receivers in the NFL, seeking a contract worth over $30 million annually. Although the Patriots were prepared to offer a favorable deal and a package the 49ers liked, Aiyuk’s reluctance to sign a long-term deal with them caused the deal to stall. This is why he remains untraded to Cleveland or New England.
Given the situation, if the 49ers decide to trade Aiyuk, the Steelers seem like the most likely destination. He could form an exciting wide receiver pairing with George Pickens and complete what appears to be a significantly revamped offense under Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith.