Aiyuk is slated to earn $14.124 million in 2024 on a team-exercised fifth-year option. The wideout reportedly seeks more than twice that amount, aiming for a deal similar to the recent four-year, $120 million contract signed by Detroit Lions wideout Amon-Ra St. Brown.
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, teams have reached out to the 49ers to inquire about Aiyuk. San Francisco's response? The team has "no intention" of trading their disgruntled receiver.
There is no practical reason to trade Aiyuk at this point. If the 49ers were going to make a move, a deal with another team would have been struck around the draft. Currently, the 49ers are focused on making yet another championship run, and Aiyuk is expected to be a key player in that effort.
Josina Anderson reports that the New England Patriots recently reached out to the 49ers about a potential trade for Aiyuk. They were also told the receiver was unavailable at this time.
Two years ago, San Francisco faced a similar situation with wide receiver Deebo Samuel, and the two sides eventually agreed to terms on a contract extension. This latest development is unlikely to change the 49ers' stance at this time.
The 49ers have significant leverage in the negotiations with Aiyuk. In addition to the fifth-year option, the team can twice utilize the franchise tag in future years, keeping Aiyuk under contract through at least 2026. Obviously, it benefits everyone for the two sides to come to an agreement on a long-term deal instead, and a training camp holdout would be an unnecessary distraction.