Brandon Aiyuk's time with the San Francisco 49ers could be nearing an end. According to Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area, the Cleveland Browns and New England Patriots have established the frameworks of trades for the star receiver, paving the way for his potential departure from the Bay Area.
"Now, it is up to Aiyuk to determine if he will accept the contract terms from either of those franchises, the source said," Maiocco noted.
Recently, it was reported that the 49ers gave multiple teams permission to negotiate a contract with Aiyuk, setting up a potential trade. Maiocco reports that the teams involved include the Browns, Patriots, Washington Commanders, and Pittsburgh Steelers. However, the Commanders have since withdrawn from the trade talks, and the Steelers are "effectively no longer an option" after failing to meet the 49ers' trade demands.
"The Browns and Patriots have presented their best offers to Aiyuk's camp while also presenting trade proposals that the 49ers have accepted, the source said," Maiocco wrote.
The Browns' and Patriots' packages reportedly include draft picks and a veteran receiver. Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com speculated that the Browns might be willing to include veteran Amari Cooper in a deal for Aiyuk.
Maiocco believes the Patriots are expected to include former 49ers wide receiver Kendrick Bourne as part of their offer.
Everything hinges on Aiyuk's willingness to play for either team. The receiver could derail a trade by refusing to accept either contract offer, continuing the standoff with the 49ers.
Aiyuk requested a trade before reporting to training camp. He has not participated in practices but has actively participated in meetings. The wideout is slated to earn $14.124 million in 2024 on a team-exercised fifth-year option, well below the market value for a top NFL receiver.
