The San Francisco 49ers are overhauling their roster and going through a re-tooling this offseason after losing several key starters in free agency.
Last offseason was a bit noisy as wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk was holding out for a contract extension. There was a time when it seemed that the 49ers had enough of Aiyuk's antics and were ready to deal the wideout. However, the 26-year-old receiver refused to sign a long-term contract with the Cleveland Browns, while the Pittsburgh Steelers were hesitant to meet Aiyuk's contractual demands.
Ultimately, the 49ers signed Aiyuk to a four-year, $120M contract that included $76M guaranteed.
Unfortunately, Aiyuk suffered a season-ending torn ACL and MCL against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 7 of last season.
Fast forward to this offseason, and it is evident that the 49ers are more than willing to listen to offers for the former Arizona State receiver.
NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported during the combine although the 49ers had already dealt Deebo Samuel, the team would also consider moving Aiyuk potentially this offseason.
Despite signing a lucrative contract extension just a year ago, Aiyuk has been a popular trade candidate this offseason. Sometime during the draft has been what many people expect if a move transpires, but a trade may occur sooner than that.
Aiyuk could be dealt in the next couple of weeks, as he is due a $22.5M roster bonus on April 1. The 49ers will need to trade the receiver before then to avoid this financial commitment.
As mentioned, Aiyuk is coming off a serious knee injury that could hamper his ability to return to the field early next season.
Acquiring Aiyuk could come at a discount for these two reasons alone.
San Francisco has over $77M in dead cap, which is the most in the NFL. Aiyuk could be another cap causality, as the team is considering giving Brock Purdy an extension in the near future.
Look for the New England Patriots to be aggressive in trade talks for the former 2020 first-round pick.
