Why San Francisco 49ers Could Trade $14 Million Wide Receiver Despite Big Year

As the San Francisco 49ers grapple with offseason decisions to navigate their salary cap challenges, wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk faces potential consequences. Entering the last year of his contract, Aiyuk is in line for an extension. Despite the team exercising a $14.1 million fifth-year option last offseason, the 49ers, dealing with cap constraints in 2024, may consider trading him if a contract resolution remains elusive. This underscores the complex landscape teams navigate in balancing player contracts with financial constraints.

Brandon Aiyuk Emerges as One of the San Francisco 49ers’ Prime Trade Assets. Aiyuk, linebacker Dre Greenlaw, and offensive tackle Kolton McKivitz are identified as key trade assets for the 49ers, as suggested by the Bleacher Report scouting department. Although the preference is to retain Aiyuk, the team may find it challenging to reject a compelling offer if one materializes.

Aiyuk, an intriguing prospect, has shown consistent improvement throughout his tenure with the Niners. In 2023, he achieved a career-high of 1,342 receiving yards, marking his second consecutive 1,000-yard season, along with seven touchdowns on 75 receptions.

The 49ers are in a cap crunch and might consider trading wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, who is on his fifth-year option, to free up space. While they don’t plan to trade him, the right offer could change their stance. With the 2024 draft class deep in wide receivers, acquiring a new No. 2 wideout on a rookie deal is a sensible option.

Linebacker Dre Greenlaw, performing well but in the final year of his contract, could be traded to save $6.8 million in cap space. San Francisco, aiming for a right tackle upgrade, may include Kolton McKivitz in the deal to save $1.9 million in cap space, even though the return might not be substantial.

Certainly, with the 49ers in Super Bowl 58, outcomes remain uncertain. A standout performance by Aiyuk could influence the team to retain him, or they might capitalize on his peak value if they choose a different direction.

As the San Francisco 49ers gear up for Super Bowl 58 against the reigning champions, the Kansas City Chiefs, their primary focus is on the championship game. The team, led by standout players like Brock Purdy and Christian McCaffrey, is considered the favorite to win, thanks to their formidable lineup.

Brandon Aiyuk, the 25-year-old wide receiver, has played a crucial role, showcasing his skills with a remarkable touchdown catch in the NFC Championship against the Detroit Lions. As the Niners aim to secure victory against the Chiefs, Aiyuk’s consistent performance, especially in the postseason, is expected to be a key factor in their success.

While thoughts of the offseason may loom, the immediate priority for the 49ers is to have Aiyuk step up once again on the grand stage of the Super Bowl, contributing to the team’s efforts to outshine the Chiefs and secure the championship title.