An analyst has shared a critical perspective on the Los Angeles Chargers possibly trading for a star player from the San Francisco 49ers.
Despite needing a top-tier wide receiver to support Justin Herbert, the Chargers must be cautious not to overpay for a player, with Jason Reed from Bolt Beat particularly advising against going all-in on 49ers receiver Brandon Aiyuk.
Aiyuk, who recently signed a four-year, $120 million extension with the 49ers, is reportedly on the trade block less than a year later, and the Chargers seem like a logical destination. However, Reed argues that it would be unwise for Los Angeles to make a big move for a player who might not even be a true No. 1 receiver.
Reed writes, “It’s unfair to judge someone on a six-game sample size, but there were already concerns about Aiyuk’s potential before the 2024 season. The 49ers’ hesitation to sign him shows he’s a prime example of a highly-paid WR2.”
Aiyuk tore his ACL mid-last season, and in his limited time on the field, he posted just 25 receptions for 374 yards—far from elite numbers. Given his backloaded contract and the lingering injury, Reed notes that while Aiyuk’s deal might not look as bad on paper, it’s still a hefty sum for a player who may have already hit his peak and is recovering from an injury that could affect him in 2025.
Reed concludes, “Aiyuk’s contract is pricey for someone who could have already reached his ceiling, and coming off an injury that might limit him next year makes it even more concerning.”
Ultimately, it’s unlikely the Chargers will pursue Aiyuk. After not wanting to pay for D.K. Metcalf, they’re not likely to go after Aiyuk either. Instead, they’ll probably look to address the wide receiver position in the upcoming NFL Draft.
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