The San Francisco 49ers are optimistic they can negotiate a contract extension with star wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk. Recognizing the impending significant investment, the team has been strategically planning for the day when Aiyuk's contract demands must be accommodated.
Despite the team's assurance that signing Aiyuk remains a priority, speculation continues to circulate within NFL circles, often involving Aiyuk's name in trade rumors. In March, general manager John Lynch addressed these rumors, stating that the 49ers are actively engaged in discussions with Aiyuk and his representatives while debunking any notion of trade talks.
"I promise you, nothing's going on there," Lynch said of the rumors.
However, if circumstances change, one of Aiyuk's former teammates, Kendrick Bourne, expressed his desire to reunite with the receiver in New England. Bourne, a former fan favorite in the Bay Area, recently tried to recruit Aiyuk via Instagram. The two were 49ers teammates in 2020, Bourne's last year with the team before signing with the Patriots.
Patriots WR Kendrick Bourne campaigning for #49ers WR Brandon Aiyuk to join him in New England. The two were teammates in 2020. pic.twitter.com/RGIncKHkX5
— 49ers Webzone (@49erswebzone) April 10, 2024
Meanwhile, Aiyuk has shown openness to remaining with the 49ers. He simply wants to ensure he's fairly compensated.
"I'm trying to get what I deserve," Aiyuk stated during a recent podcast appearance. "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. ... We got professionals working on both sides, so hopefully, we can come to a professional agreement to continue playing professional football."
Aiyuk is slated to earn $14.124 million in 2024 under the team-exercised fifth-year option. However, a contract extension could decrease his salary-cap impact. Additionally, it is unlikely that Aiyuk will retake the football field without a new deal.
Whatever happens, the situation isn't likely to be resolved until closer to training camp. Historically, the 49ers have finalized significant contract extensions with their star players around this time. That was the case with tight end George Kittle in 2020, linebacker Fred Warner in 2021, and wide receiver Deebo Samuel in 2022. Last year, negotiations with defensive end Nick Bosa extended into the days leading up to the regular season opener.