In the end, everything worked out for both sides. However, for a while, it seemed like the San Francisco 49ers might lose wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk. In fact, they came very close to trading him, according to a Sunday report from FOX Sports' Jay Glazer.
On Monday, ESPN insider Adam Schefter provided more insight during his appearance on "The Pat McAfee Show." Schefter revealed that the 49ers, frustrated by Aiyuk's "hold-in," gave the receiver an ultimatum.
"Do you know that Brandon Aiyuk got the five-day letter in the middle of August, that he had a practice or he wouldn't be able to play this year?" Schefter said.
He went on to explain the five-day letter, stating, "You get a five-day letter, it means you better get back to practice or the team has the right to place you on the list, and you lose the year. That happened, too."
Of course, it sounded like the 49ers reached a point where they were fine trading Aiyuk. They were reportedly on the phone with the Pittsburgh Steelers, finalizing a deal, when Aiyuk decided to sign the contract extension the team had offered.
After practicing only a few times last week—his first on-field work with his teammates since February—Aiyuk is set to play tonight against the New York Jets.
"Brandon Aiyuk looked good in practice last week for the 49ers..
He got the five day letter in the middle of August that he had to practice or he wouldn't be able to play this year..
The team can place you on the list and you lose the entire year" ~ @AdamSchefter #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/LGoqcAL9aL
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) September 9, 2024
