4 potential trade packages for 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk

I know what you’re thinking, but take a deep breath and stay with me. I said it before, and still, I stand by it, trading a big-play guy to a division rival is a ticking time bomb.

But, it’s hypothetical, so let’s analyze this trade for just a minute without our emotions.

What would hurt worse, losing Brandon Aiyuk to the Los Angeles Rams, or letting him walk and getting nothing in return?

In addition to the draft capital on the table, LA wide receiver Cooper Kupp is an absolute workhorse. He’s been the go-to guy every season since he was drafted. Unfortunately, an injury opened the door for rookie Puka Nacua to showcase his talent. Kupp has been sidelined since week 10 with a high-ankle sprain.

Nakua set rookie records for receptions and yards. After that performance, it’s hard not to picture him as the clear-cut No. 1 at the start of next season.

If the Rams decide to use Nacua like they did last year, then Kupp is the odd man out. It’s hard to picture a world with two full-time slot receivers. Besides, who knows if Kupp can return to his dominant form?

Moving to the 49ers would give him time to heal while being introduced slowly to an already dominant offense. In time, his yards-after-catch average would fit in famously with this crowd.

Where Aiyuk ends up is anybody’s guess. But rest assured, if the 49ers decide not to pay him, someone else definitely will.

There isn’t a player on the team who wants to see Aiyuk traded. But it may be the price they pay for having a team full of superstars with high price tags.