Everything was fine until the San Francisco 49ers lost their Super Bowl. After that many things seemed to be falling apart, and that’s not only because of losing the Lombardi this year, it’s because of the ongoing contract situation the team is currently facing, too.

They resolved Christian McCaffrey’s extension, but the franchise is still in discussion for Brandon Aiyuk and his demand. Amidst all these, another massive update recently dropped on July 16, 2024. Yes, it’s official! WR Aiyuk has requested a trade from the Niners, and this has sent shockwaves in the San Francisco squad. Additionally, as per Nick Wright, this request will harm the Niners from both sides in the future!

The 49ers are in deep water?

In a recent episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd on July 16, 2024, Nick Wright joined the show host Cowherd to react to Brandon Aiyuk’s recent trade request. Cowherd mentioned that Brock Purdy isn’t known for deep throws, and Aiyuk, on the other hand, “can be a really stretch-the- field player,” implying Aiyuk’s stay would help the QB and the team overall. Wright, on the other flip, gave his perspective on Aiyuk’s trade request saying, “I think this will hurt Purdy a lot.” After a year or two, Purdy would be wanting his contract extension, as the team had also made financial commitments to George Kittle, Deebo Samuel, and Nick Bosa. So, it’s obvious that Purdy would want to be one of the top paid QBs in the league. But if the team pays Aiyuk this time, the calculation might affect as the 49ers are currently under financial constraints. Thus, the potential miscalculation could impact on the team’s future.

In this situation, Aiyuk’s potential departure could challenge the team’s salary cap management and also significantly affect the team’s overall performance and aspirations of the Super Bowl. His “75 catches of the 105 passes for 1,342 yards (in 2023 season), and nine receptions for 149 yards and a touchdown” in the Super Bowl has contributed well in the team.

Not only stats, even the quarterback himself wants Aiyuk to come back. In an early interview during the 2024 draft season, Purdy said, “Obviously, you’re excited to get guys that you’re drafting, but at the same time, it’s like, ‘Dang, dude. We could have some kind of trade stuff happen and whatever….I think it’s extremely important [to keep Aiyuk]. He is a playmaker. Love throwing to him. Love B.A. as a person….Hopefully, it gets settled soon.”

And if it does not happen, the market is already open for the wide receiver. As per Wright, Aiyuk’s value in the trade market suggests that he could fetch a first-round draft pick and more, highlighting his ability to contribute significantly to any team willing to acquire him.

Top homes to land Brandon Aiyuk!

Brandon Aiyuk wants a salary matching Justin Jefferson’s $35 million contract annually. However, as the team is unlikely to pay him that much, he has requested for a trade. But which teams would he might land if the 49ers let him go? The ties between Brandon Aiyuk and the Commanders have been building throughout the offseason. The player has a close relationship with Washington rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels from their time together at Arizona State. And as per reports, currently, the Commanders have the second highest salary cap space in the NFL, which makes them a potential landing spot for Aiyuk.

Meanwhile, Pittsburgh also appears as a strong contender for Aiyuk. They have a pressing need at wide receiver, particularly after trading Diontae Johnson. Despite uncertainties in their quarterback situation, having Aiyuk would significantly bolster their offense and potentially attract top quarterback talent in the future.

Additionally, the Steelers have a substantial amount of cap space in the upcoming years, which could facilitate a long-term extension for Aiyuk if they pursue him. The Patriots, despite missing out on Calvin Ridley, remain in the mix for Aiyuk. They have the most cap space available among all NFL teams and are looking to surround rookie quarterback Drake Maye with playmakers. Thus, Aiyuk could provide the No. 1 receiver talent that New England sorely needs.

Lastly, the Lions, despite their cap constraints from recent signings, present an intriguing option. They have ambitions of competing for a Super Bowl in the near future and pairing Aiyuk with Amon- Ra St. Brown would bolster their receiving corps significantly.

So, in short, Aiyuk, if traded, has at least five homes to get into. Till then, it remains to be seen what’s in store for Aiyuk and the involved parties.