John Lynch on Brandon Aiyuk trade rumors: 'I promise you, nothing's going on there'

John Lynch refuted any notion that the 49ers are actively looking to trade Brandon Aiyuk amid contract extension discussions.

It wouldn't be the most shocking thing if the San Francisco 49ers ultimately elected to trade star wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk this offseason, provided the two parties are unable to come together on what promises to be a lucrative contract extension for the team's leading pass-catcher from the last two seasons.

After all, there is a precedent.

Back in 2020, under similar circumstances, the Niners traded Pro Bowl defensive tackle DeForest Buckner to the Indianapolis Colts after not agreeing on an extension.

So, San Francisco was willing to do this before. It could do so again, especially with so many of its players already commanding top-dollar contracts and the team pressed up against the salary cap.

Trade rumors regarding Aiyuk, who'll enter the fully guaranteed fifth-year option of his original rookie contract heading into 2024, have already floated around this offseason. The Jacksonville Jaguars and Pittsburgh Steelers have been associated with having interest, and there are likely other teams that wouldn't mind having Aiyuk's services.

According to general manager John Lynch, however, there's nothing to suggest a deal involving the 2020 first-round NFL Draft choice will happen.

John Lynch shoots down Brandon Aiyuk trade rumors

Speaking to reporters at the annual NFL owners meeting, Lynch clarified the 49ers' stance on Aiyuk while also stressing that no trade was in the works.

Additionally, Lynch pointed out that extension discussions were ongoing.

"We're actively talking with Brandon, trying to figure something out," Lynch said, via Tracy Sandler of FanGirl Sports Network (h/t 49ers Webzone). "I always talk—we have a good history of working with the guys we want to get done to get something done, and it takes two sides. So, can we do that? We'll see."

Related story: Deebo Samuel says everything that 49ers fans need to hear

"There's a number of different directions that it could go, but we appreciate the heck out of Brandon and who he is as a player," Lynch continued. "We want him to be a part of the Niners, so we're going to work towards making that a reality."

Last season, Aiyuk had a career-high 1,342 receiving yards on 75 receptions with seven touchdowns serving as quarterback Brock Purdy's favorite target.

It's understandable why Aiyuk would draw attention from other teams, including Jacksonville and Pittsburgh.

Lynch had a straightforward rebuttal to those rumors.

"I promise you, nothing's going on there," Lynch affirmed.

Read more from Niner Noise