3 teams that'd love to pry Brandon Aiyuk away from 49ers
By Scott Conrad
San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk has been impressive in the last two seasons while coming to the near end of his rookie contract. The playmaker has tallied 15 touchdowns between the last two seasons.
In 2022, he accumulated 1,015 yards on 78 receptions. Last season, Aiyuk had 1,342 yards on three fewer catches than the year before.
He led the Niners in receiving in both years.
While it remains to be seen whether Aiyuk signs an extension or will finish his contract with the only team he has known, officially expiring at the end of 2024, there are a few times that may look to swoop up the dynamic route runner if San Francisco ultimatley elects to part ways with him prematurely.
Here are three teams that may be making an immediate phone call to the 49ers if that's the case.
1. Arizona Cardinals
While a trade within the NFC West is usually rare, especially between these two teams, the Arizona Cardinals are expected to have a high-end first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. This becomes an intriguing trade asset the 49ers could acquire if they are to unload Aiyuk to Arizona.
It makes sense, too. The Cardinals are a few years away from competing and do not look to be much of a threat to San Francisco.
Furthermore, the Cardinals are expected to have north of $90 million in cap space next year to splurge in free agency. Meaning, the last place team in the NFC West may lure one of the Niners' offensive weapons away and provide the long-term contract he is looking for.
Aiyuk would fit nicely on this roster. The quarterback, Kyler Murray, is established as a dual threat with his arm and his running ability.
The Cardinals used the fourth overall pick to select rookie wideout Marvin Harrison, Jr. The former Ohio State receiver became a household name in 2022 and 2023 at the collegiate level.
The rest of the Cardinals' depth chart at wide receiver has Greg Dortch, Michael Wilson and newly acquired Zay Jones. The first two are in their mid-20s while Jones is 29 years old now.
Combined, those three receivers only tallied seven touchdowns and neither had more than 600 yards individually during the 2023 season.
By adding Aiyuk, the Cardinals instantly upgrade their receiver core and make Murray's job easier to score.