Could the San Francisco 49ers actually end up hanging on to superstar receiver Brandon Aiyuk?
Contract negotiations with Aiyuk have been a roller coaster, to say the least. At one point it seemed like a deal was close. Then, it sounded like he was going to be traded ahead of the National Football League Draft. Soon after, a deal with the 49ers seemed imminent again but talks fell off leading to more trade speculation.
At this point, he still is a member of the 49ers and the Pittsburgh Steelers are the most likely trade destination. But, things seem to have taken a turn and now the 49ers and Aiyuk reportedly "aren’t that far apart" on a new deal, according to NFL Network's Mike Garafolo.
"From The Insiders on NFL Network: The #49ers and Brandon Aiyuk aren’t that far apart on a deal, which is why they haven’t pulled the trigger on a trade to the Steelers and Aiyuk is still hoping they can clear one final hurdle in the negotiations," Garafolo said.
The fact that there is a chance Aiyuk could stay in San Francisco should be a welcomed sight for 49ers fans. He has developed into one of the best receivers in football and could help the 49ers get over the hump in 2024 and compete for a Super Bowl.
A deal certainly would cost a lot as Aiyuk reportedly is looking for a deal near $30 million per year, but he is worth it. San Francisco should do what it takes to get the deal over the finish line.
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