San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch expressed frustration and didn’t rule out a trade involving All-Pro wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk as training camp began on July 23. Almost two weeks later, with contract extension talks at an impasse, the 49ers have developed trade frameworks with both the New England Patriots and Cleveland Browns, according to NBC Sports Bay Area.
Aiyuk’s Contract Demands
Aiyuk, 26, is seeking a deal averaging around $30 million annually. If he can reach an agreement with either the Patriots or Browns, the 49ers are ready to proceed with a trade. The potential deals would see San Francisco receiving a wide receiver and draft-pick compensation.
Potential Trade Components
The Patriots would likely send former 49ers wide receiver Kendrick Bourne, 29, as part of the package. Bourne, who is signed through 2026, had 37 catches for 406 yards in eight games last season before a torn ACL ended his season on October 30. He has not participated in training camp due to his injury.
The Browns, on the other hand, could accommodate Aiyuk’s contract if Pro Bowl wide receiver Amari Cooper, 30, is traded to the 49ers. Cooper, in the final year of his contract, had a career-high 1,250 yards on 72 catches in 2023.
49ers’ Current Wide Receiver Roster
Without Aiyuk, the 49ers’ top wideouts are Deebo Samuel, Jauan Jennings, and rookie Ricky Pearsall, the No. 31 pick in the April draft. Aiyuk’s unexpected appearance at training camp initially seemed promising, but Lynch did not confirm any positive developments.
“I always want to be optimistic,” said Lynch, whose agent, Ryan Williams, also represents Aiyuk. “I think this has been a tough one.”
Financial Considerations
Lynch acknowledged the possibility of trading Aiyuk, a stark contrast to his firm stance last year against trading All-Pro pass rusher Nick Bosa. The 49ers face significant financial obligations, with $301.3 million in salary cap liabilities for 2025, not including an anticipated extension for Pro Bowl quarterback Brock Purdy, which could exceed $50 million annually.
Trading Aiyuk could help the 49ers re-sign key 2025 free agents, including cornerbacks Deommodore Lenoir and Charvarius Ward.
Trent Williams’ Contract Situation
In addition to Aiyuk’s situation, the 49ers are dealing with All-Pro left tackle Trent Williams’ contract holdout. Williams, 36, became the highest-paid offensive lineman in NFL history with a six-year deal averaging $23.01 million per season in 2021. However, recent contracts have made him the league’s sixth-highest paid offensive tackle.
Aiyuk’s Training Camp Presence
Despite the tension, Aiyuk has been in Santa Clara, participating in all team functions except practices. On Wednesday, Aiyuk’s interactions with Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan fueled speculation about his future. Shanahan downplayed the significance, calling it a “bro hug.”
Familiar Face Returns
The 49ers signed running back Matt Breida, 29, their rushing leader in 2018. Breida, who spent his first three seasons with the 49ers, returns with rookie running back Isaac Guerendo sidelined by a hamstring injury. Breida rushed for 151 yards with the Giants last year and has a career average of 4.8 yards per carry. He was traded to the Dolphins in 2020 for a fifth-round pick used to select right tackle Colton McKivitz.
As the 49ers navigate contract negotiations and trade possibilities, Aiyuk’s future with the team remains uncertain, with the Patriots and Browns waiting in the wings.