Well, that was fun while it lasted.
Almost exactly 24 hours after reports indicated that the Patriots had the framework of a trade in place for Brandon Aiyuk, New England is apparently no longer in the running for the San Francisco 49ers wide receiver.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported Tuesday night that the Patriots “have decided not to explore any further trade possibilities” regarding Aiyuk, adding that they “are excited about their young receivers and want to focus on them.”
Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area, who first reported New England had the framework of a deal in place, added that the Patriots “had an agreement in place with the 49ers and a large offer to Aiyuk on the table, but he did not show interest in going there.”
Aiyuk could have given the Patriots the true No. 1 receiver they have been lacking for years, but now that won’t be happening unless there’s another twist to come in this story.
The Cleveland Browns were the other team Maiocco initially reported had the framework of a trade in place, while multiple reports on Tuesday indicated that the Pittsburgh Steelers also re-entered the Aiyuk sweepstakes after briefly balking at the cost.