The Brandon Aiyuk saga continues with the San Francisco 49ers, but things got complicated Tuesday. The Pittsburgh Steelers reportedly have reached an agreement to sign the 26-year-old if the 49ers decide to go that route.
NFL Network Ian Rapoport reports. The Steelers announced their interest in acquiring Aiyuk from San Francisco. Pittsburgh is in a good position to extend Aiyuk’s contract. The 49ers offered Aiyuk a long-term contract to keep him, but he declined.
Pittsburgh has been Aiyuk’s most likely destination for several weeks, as he would fill a major need on the roster. The Steelers are missing a big receiver, and Aiyuk would represent a huge upgrade to the current receiving corps.
Aiyuk was named a second-team All-Pro last season, making 75 receptions for 1,342 yards and seven touchdowns, a career-high. He also set a career-high averaging 17.9 yards per reception. He was a big part of San Francisco’s run to Super Bowl LVIII, catching nine passes for 149 yards and scoring a touchdown in the postseason.
So far, the 49ers have held off on giving Aiyuk the long-term deal he seeks. The former first-round pick is entering the final season of his rookie contract and is set to make $14.1 million in 2024. It’s no surprise he wants a long-term commitment.
According to Rappaport, he may get the deal he seeks, but it could come from the Steelers.
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