The San Francisco 49ers are viewed as the top team in the NFC West heading into the 2024 season but they could part ways with one of their top offensive weapons this offseason.
On Tuesday, NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo reported that Brandon Aiyuk has formally requested a trade from the 49ers after San Francisco was unwilling to negotiate a new contract for the fifth-year receiver out of Arizona State.
Aiyuk is set to play the season on the fifth-year option, which will pay him about $14 million, but he wants a raise relative to the rest of the wide receiver market – a market that has been booming for other players at the position.
Source: #49ers All-Pro WR Brandon Aiyuk has officially requested a trade after an offseason of unsuccessful attempts to reach an extension.
Despite a recent meeting, the Niners haven’t been willing to engage in negotiations since May so Aiyuk has respectfully asked out. pic.twitter.com/EWxYMvsHch
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) July 16, 2024
According to Adam Schefter of ESPN, the 49ers are not only unwilling to give him a new contract worth as much as Aiyuk wants, but they also have “no intention of trading” the disgruntled wide receiver.
So the two sides are at an impasse, with Aiyuk wanting out and the 49ers planning to hold onto him.
Sources: Other teams that have reached out and spoken to San Francisco have been told that the 49ers have no intention of trading disgruntled WR Brandon Ayiuk, who officially has requested a trade. 49ers open training camp next week. pic.twitter.com/vsVCoPvUr1
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) July 16, 2024
Aiyuk hasn’t exactly been a thorn in the Rams’ side during his four-year career, eclipsing 70 yards receiving only twice in nine games with two total touchdowns, but Los Angeles wouldn’t be upset about seeing the talented receiver leave the NFC West.
Last season, Aiyuk caught 75 passes for 1,342 yards, increasing his yardage total for the third straight year.