JUST IN: Commanders Ready to Invest in 49ers’ Star Brandon Aiyuk

San Francisco 49ers standout Brandon Aiyuk has been surrounded by trade speculations since before the 2024 NFL Draft due to ongoing contract disputes with his current team. Aiyuk, a first-round pick in 2020, is approaching the final year of his rookie contract’s fifth-year option in 2024 and is slated for unrestricted free agency in 2025.

Negotiations for a new contract between Aiyuk and the 49ers have been active but have yet to bridge significant gaps. During this period, Aiyuk has openly considered the possibility of playing for other teams, with particular interest reportedly shown by the Washington Commanders. This interest is intensified by Aiyuk’s close friendship with Jayden Daniels, Washington’s second overall pick in the recent draft.

Reports suggest that the Commanders were indeed keen on acquiring Aiyuk at one stage, although discussions did not progress due to the Niners’ presumably high trade demands.

According to a recent update from Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio, the Commanders, along with at least four other teams, were prepared to meet Aiyuk’s contract demands prior to the draft. However, despite the willingness of potential suitors, a trade agreement with the 49ers did not materialize by draft day.

The specifics of the 49ers’ demands remain unclear, though they reportedly turned down a second-round pick offer from the New England Patriots. Other teams, such as the Pittsburgh Steelers, have also shown interest, indicating ongoing intrigue in Aiyuk’s services.

It comes as no surprise that any team willing to part with significant compensation for Aiyuk would also be prepared to meet his contract expectations. Speculation persists regarding what might have transpired had the Commanders successfully acquired Aiyuk. Would such a move have affected Washington’s roster, potentially involving players like Terry McLaurin or Jahan Dotson in a trade scenario? McLaurin, a key figure both on the field and in team dynamics, is viewed as indispensable as the Commanders navigate their rebuilding phase.

With training camp commencing imminently, the focus remains on Aiyuk’s situation as observers wait to see if any developments arise in his contract standoff or potential trade discussions.