Brandon Aiyuk is closer and closer to the exit door. Multiple online rumblings have prematurely suggested Aiyuk is already out that door. But as the day has gone on, it's appeared Aiyuk's departure could be for two destinations not named Pittsburgh.
NBC Sports Matt Maiocco reported Monday night that the 49ers have agreements in place with both the Cleveland Browns and New England Patriots. Either deal would have the 49ers "likely acquire a veteran wide receiver and a package of draft picks from the Browns or Patriots," with Maiocco pointing to a report from Cleveland.com's Mary Kay Cabot that suggests Amari Cooper would be involved. It should be noted the Patriots have Kendrick Bourne, who would cost less than $2 million for the 49ers on the cap.
He also reports the Commanders "removed themselves" from trade talks, and that the Steelers "effectively no longer an option" because they did not meet the 49ers' asking price.
This comes after an earlier report from NFL Network's Tom Pelissero and Mike Garafolo has Aiyuk still in the building, but likely to leave.
Both jointly report that Aiyuk is still a 49er, and that there is no trade agreement in place. However, he is more likely to be traded than to sign an extension.
It would be a monumental move for Brock Purdy's top target coming off his first All-Pro season, in which he recorded 75 receptions for 1,342 yards and 7 touchdowns. His 17.9-yards-per-catch average was behind only George Pickens.
This is a strange one for San Francisco, which typically rewards its star talent with long-term deals. But with Trent Williams holding out and Brock Purdy due a monumental extension next season, and the costs of star receivers reaching the nearly (and in some cases, exactly) $30 million-per-year mark, the 49ers may make the decision to move on from Aiyuk, who made his desire to be paid clear from the outset. Other teams, per NBC Sports' Matt Maiocco, are more willing to meet his asking price.
Where does the 49ers' offense go from here if Aiyuk departs? It goes to Deebo Samuel, Jauan Jennings, George Kittle, Christian McCaffrey and... Ricky Pearsall. That rookie is the key. He is the one outside receiver who is potentially capable of separating against man coverage in a way Samuel cannot.
This story will be updated should anything change.