With the 2024 NFL Draft just two days away, there have yet to be significant updates regarding Brandon Aiyuk's status. While the San Francisco 49ers wide receiver remains away from the team, efforts for a contract extension persist.
NFL Network insider Mike Garafolo addressed the situation, confirming that Aiyuk has not yet requested a trade from the 49ers, according to sources. Recently, the receiver's agent, Ryan Williams, refuted a report claiming otherwise.
"Now, let's be crystal clear. Sources continue to insist that Brandon Aiyuk has not requested a trade from the 49ers," stated Garafolo on NFL Network.
On Monday, general manager John Lynch reiterated the team's commitment to securing a long-term deal for Aiyuk.
Lynch emphasized, "And our wish is that he's here and a part of the Niners for the rest of his career. We're working through that."
Garafolo mentioned that the two sides have remained in communication as the draft quickly approaches, stating, "My understanding is they talked as late as yesterday, again, with Brandon Aiyuk's camp. So those conversations continue to be ongoing."
This situation contrasts with Deebo Samuel's in 2022, when the versatile receiver, discontent with his contract negotiations, requested a trade ahead of the draft.
"It was way worse for Deebo Samuel, and it still got done," Garafolo remarked. "So I still believe that there is a strong chance he could remain with the 49ers and get a long-term deal done in the near future, but we'll see."
Aiyuk is currently set to earn $14.124 million in 2024 under a team-exercised fifth-year option. While Lynch hasn't ruled out the receiver playing under this scenario, Aiyuk prefers securing his financial future with a new deal.
"I'm trying to get what I deserve," Aiyuk said last month on a podcast. "I feel like this season, this season playing football, I figured out who I was as a person and a player — what I bring to the table, what I bring to the locker room, what I bring to the organization."