A recent Bay Area News Group feature delves into how Brandon Aiyuk's impending $22.9 million option bonus—along with a $24.9 million guarantee set to trigger in 2026—could impact his future with the San Francisco 49ers. Given the team's offseason moves, which have largely focused on reducing future cash commitments, Aiyuk's future remains a key discussion topic.
Within the feature, reporter Cam Inman references a social media post from unaffiliated NFL reporter John Frascella, who claims Aiyuk may have a trade suitor. However, Inman notes that, last April, Frascella reported Aiyuk had requested a trade, which the receiver's agent refuted. Aiyuk ultimately requested a trade, but it was three months later.
Now, Frascella reports that the Cleveland Browns have been actively exploring a potential deal for the 49ers receiver. While the report's validity remains uncertain, rumors linking Aiyuk to the Browns have been swirling for the past week.
"The Cleveland Browns have been pounding the 49ers in the past week or so, trying to find a deal that works for Brandon Aiyuk," Frascella wrote in his social media post.
He also suggests the Browns may be eyeing Aiyuk as a key target for quarterback Shedeur Sanders—a potential draft target.
WR UPDATE:
The Cleveland Browns have been pounding the 49ers in the past week or so, trying to find a deal that works for Brandon Aiyuk, looks like they want a WR1 for Shedeur pic.twitter.com/UUEjiv33oH
— John Frascella (Football) (@NFLFrascella) March 23, 2025
Aiyuk's bonus is due on April 1, meaning the 49ers have about a week to decide whether to move the receiver—potentially avoiding additional cash commitments—or retain him as he recovers from injury.
Inman points out that both the Browns and New England Patriots seem like logical trade partners, as both teams expressed interest in Aiyuk last year. However, the receiver rejected potential trades to either team, nixing already-formulated deals.
Complicating matters, the 49ers would likely receive significantly less than what those teams previously offered, as Aiyuk is not expected to be ready for the start of the 2025 season.
At the NFL Scouting Combine last month, 49ers general manager John Lynch didn't rule out the possibility of a trade, simply stating, "You get calls, and you always listen to calls."