According to NFL Insider, Benjamin Allbright, the Pittsburgh Steelers are trying to trade for San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, to add him as a weapon for QB Russell Wilson. The Steelers added Wilson earlier this offseason after the Denver Broncos decided to move on from him. Aiyuk, if paired with Steelers WR George Pickens, would give Wilson two dangerous threats in the passing game.
— Benjamin Allbright (@AllbrightNFL) April 13, 2024
Aiyuk is, of course, still with the 49ers. Many believe the 49ers want to give Aiyuk a new contract. San Francisco usually prefers to wait until training camp to finalize new contracts, much to the dismay of some players. Aiyuk recently stopped following the 49ers on Instagram, much like WR Deebo Samuel did two years ago when his contract wasn't coming together as quickly as he wanted.
This is the second rumor involving the Steelers and Aiyuk. After the first rumor, GM John Lynch denied any talks with the Steelers. Aiyuk posted on social media about how he and Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin look alike. Tomlin wisley did not respond. The 49ers have maintained their desire to keep Aiyuk.
This is the season of rumors and lies, so we likely will hear similar things involving Aiyuk. But it is interesting to note that this is the second time Pittsburgh has been named as a team pursuing Aiyuk. However, there may be other teams pursuing a trade for Aiyuk, who had his best season as a pro in 2023, with 75 catches for 1,342 yards and seven touchdowns.
If anything happens, it will most likely take place before or during the draft later this month so that the 49ers can draft a replacement for the star receiver.