NFL insider Ian Rapoport advises to refrain from counting out the Pittsburgh Steelers as potential trade partners with the San Francisco 49ers for wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk. While the Cleveland Browns and New England Patriots are the frontrunners, having negotiated the frameworks of trades for the disgruntled wide receiver, the Steelers remain in the conversation.
"My understanding is the Pittsburgh Steelers have had discussions with the 49ers about potentially trading [for] Brandon Aiyuk," Rapoport said on NFL Network. "They are for sure in it right now. They are one of several teams that the 49ers are speaking with."
From Inside Training Camp Live: The latest on the Brandon Aiyuk, as the #49ers continue active trade discussions with the #Steelers, #Browns, and #Patriots, at the least. All three teams are still in it. pic.twitter.com/c5NMAKKI5J
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 6, 2024
This news follows a sketchy rumor that the Steelers had already negotiated a deal with the 49ers for Aiyuk, indicating that a trade was done.
Rapoport confirms that the 49ers are further along in trade talks with the Browns and Patriots. However, Aiyuk would still need to agree to terms with one of these teams on a new deal. While San Francisco has reportedly offered Aiyuk a deal worth $26 million annually, he likely seeks a contract closer to $30 million per year, making him one of the NFL's highest-paid receivers.
"[The Steelers are] another one that, at some point, those two sides could come together and get a deal in place," Rapoport added.
Aiyuk is currently scheduled to earn $14.124 million on a team-exercised fifth-year option. He reportedly remains at the 49ers' facility during this process.