The Pittsburgh Steelers are interested in trading for Brandon Aiyuk, but the sticking point seems to be what they are willing to offer the San Francisco 49ers in return. The Steelers are reportedly unwilling to part with key players like wide receiver George Pickens or tight end Pat Freiermuth in addition to draft compensation, leaving them with limited options. This has seemingly stalled trade discussions.
Multiple reports indicate that the 49ers have restarted contract negotiations with Aiyuk after months of holding firm on their previous offer, which would have likely averaged around $26 million per year for the receiver.
NFL insider Jordan Schultz reported that Aiyuk and his representatives recently met with head coach Kyle Shanahan and other key figures within the organization, allowing both sides to share "some open and candid thoughts." This led to the resumption of negotiations on a long-term deal.
RELATED Report: 49ers restart contract talks with Aiyuk after meeting with Shanahan
"The two sides have since restarted negotiations on a long-term deal and there is some optimism that Aiyuk could remain in SF," Schultz added.
Meanwhile, according to Dianna Russini of The Athletic, the Steelers have not spoken with the 49ers about Aiyuk in the past 24 hours.
The Pittsburgh Steelers have not engaged in trade conversations with the San Francisco 49ers in the last 24 hours. In the meantime, the 49ers have opened up contract talk with Brandon Aiyuk and his agent, as many are reporting.
— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) August 9, 2024
Aiyuk requested a trade before reporting to training camp and has refused to practice without securing a long-term contract, effectively "holding in" during camp. He is set to earn $14.124 million on a team-exercised fifth-year option but is seeking a deal to make him one of the NFL's highest-paid receivers, likely around $30 million annually.
On Thursday, Shanahan was asked if he hoped for a quick resolution to the ongoing situation. He responded, "I hope it does. Man, that would be awesome to wake up one day and know we have this solved."