This contract drama isn’t over yet! Brandon Aiyuk and the San Francisco 49ers are still figuring out how to keep the negotiation in both parties’ favor. Most recently, the wide receiver has officially requested a trade, after a long wait on his contract extension.

Earlier the Niners tried to settle Aiyuk down on $26 million. But the WR didn’t seem interested in that, as he wants something equal to the current market which is said to be around $30 million annually. And Aiyuk, who is playing his last year of contract, will get around $14 million. Hence, the contract commotion between the two parties. So now, to settle the heat down, many sportscasters and analysts have proposed their suggestions. But Chris Broussard has a bit different one for Aiyuk.

Brandon Aiyuk should learn from Brock Purdy!

In a recent discussion on First Things First Chris Broussard, Nick Wright and Kevin Wildes released the latest edition of “Broussard’s Under Duress List” on July 18, 2024. While discussing this list, Broussard kept Brandon Aiyuk on number 3, and delved into his contract topic. The analyst acknowledged Aiyuk’s frustration at seeing other wide receivers get huge paydays–like Justin Jefferson’s $35 million a year, AJ Brown’s $32 million, Amon-Ra St. Brown’s $30 million, and Jaylen Waddle’s $28 million. Aiyuk, despite being a second-team All-Pro last year, is stuck at $14 million.

Broussard understood Aiyuk’s disappointment but pointed out that he lacks leverage for a trade request, as Aiyuk himself admitted he’ll probably play for the 49ers next year. He emphasized the importance of having the right mindset-not just showing up in uniform, but being mentally and emotionally engaged 100%. Additionally, he suggested Aiyuk find motivation by looking at his quarterback, Brock Purdy, who “was fourth in the league in MVP voting. Your quarterback is playing the most important position in the sport, and he is going to make $985,000 this year.” This means Aiyuk will be earning about $13 million more than the team’s quarterback Purdy, despite playing arguably the most important position.

Still, the quarterback is giving his all. Therefore, Broussard urged Aiyuk to take inspiration from this, and “take your 14 million, which is still a nice chunk of money, and play your best and you get the big payday next year from somebody.” For this, he also expressed his belief in Aiyuk’s potential.

Aiyuk’s trade request doesn’t mean the 49ers will entertain offers, but with only one year left on his contract, they might have no choice if they can’t negotiate a deal. But this could lead to issues during the season.

Brandon Aiyuk’s contract might turn into cancer?

Former wide receiver James Jones appeared on SPEAK on the July 18, 2024 episode. When asked about Aiyuk and his situation, he warned the Niners that if Aiyuk reports without a new deal, it could cause major locker room problems. Jones shared how a disgruntled player can become “a little cancer in the locker room,” recalling his own contract frustrations that led to a tense atmosphere with teammates.

He recalled, “I remember when I was coming up for contract…I wasn’t cracking no jokes, I ain’t talking to Jordy, I ain’t talking to Greg. I’m mad.” This behavior can cause a wildfire among the teammates, and hence the results might be affected. Now the Niners are arguably a potential contender for the Super Bowl. Hence, in such a situation, distraction in the locker room can directly affect their goal of winning.

Meanwhile, the 49ers offer of $26 million per year to Aiyuk seems outdated. Devonta Smith and Jaylen Waddle are making over $28 million annually, and Amon-Ra St. Brown just secured $30 million a year. It’s clear why Aiyuk feels undervalued.