And now it is done. After weeks of the dagger gradually being driven into the heart of Steeler Nation, Brandon Aiyuk has made the heartbreak official by signing a four-year, $120 million contract extension with the San Francisco 49ers. Although that seemed to be the likely outcome based on how the situation had recently unfolded, Pittsburgh Steelers fans are none too pleased right now.
And who can blame them. They initially believed that Aiyuk was going to be wearing the black and gold this year, and the few to follow. The 2023 Second-Team All-Pro wide receiver had ostensibly set his sights on Mike Tomlin and Pitt, reportedly rebuffing the strong advances made by the New England Patriots. His past presence at the 49ers' practice facility opened the door for a reconciliation, but abandoning this fantasy was not realistic for those who already prepared themselves for an upgraded WR room.
The city was teased with the Aiyuk scenario for too long. Naturally, the emotions are pouring out in the aftermath of his San Fran return.
Fans react after Steelers officially lose out on Brandon Aiyuk
“So much for Brandon Aiyuk being a done deal to the Steelers lol,” Rum Bunter's Kody Duncan posted on X, formerly Twitter. Others could not merely laugh off the news. “As a Steelers fan… the Brandon Aiyuk saga took off 5 years of my life,” one individual said.
Considering all the questions that exist about Pittsburgh's quarterback situation, adding a talented wide receiver who is only 26 years of age would have been an effective stress reducer for much of the fandom. George Pickens has Pro Bowl upside, but pairing him alongside Aiyuk could have given the offense a dangerous edge. Without him, excitement for the Russell Wilson Era will still be tempered.
Though, there are some members of Steeler Nation who feel relieved following the conclusion of this summer narrative. “Never have to hear about Brandon Aiyuk and the Steelers ever again.. good riddance, now let’s go get a WR 2,” one fan posted.
“Time to change my banner,” another Pittsburgh supporter said. “At, least we didn’t overpay on let’s be honest a top 15 WR not even top 10 or the best on his team. Keep your heads up Steelers, the Brandon Aiyuk saga is over.”
Will Pittsburgh get by without a playmaker like Aiyuk?
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The former first-round draft pick recorded 75 receptions, 1,342 receiving yards and seven touchdowns in what was his first truly standout season. While there is reason to think he may not ascend into the elite receiver tier, it can also be argued that his full potential is being capped a bit in the 49ers' loaded offense. Such musings are irrelevant now, however.
Focus shifts to Week 1 of the regular season, as the Steelers prepare for a road matchup versus the Atlanta Falcons. They sneaked into the playoffs without Aiyuk last season and could have the ingenuity to do the same in 2024-25. Though, if manufacturing first downs and points continues to be a problem for the team, moving on from this ordeal will be quite difficult to do.
