On Wednesday, Chat Sports contributor Chase Senior reported that the Pittsburgh Steelers were "aggressively pursuing" San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk. He further stated that the Steelers are confident they can finalize a deal for the star player.
REPORTS: The Pittsburgh Steelers are aggressively pursuing a Brandon Aiyuk trade and the Steelers would be "surprised" if they don't land Aiyuk.
Of note: Pittsburgh has the 20th overall pick. The Niners could look at that as equal value for Aiyuk if they can't get a deal done.… pic.twitter.com/fq1rlPIMOU
— Chase Senior (@Chase_Senior) April 17, 2024
Aiyuk's agent, Ryan Williams, has been swift in addressing the rampant speculation surrounding his client. Over the weekend, he dispelled a rumor that Aiyuk had requested a trade.
Williams has now refuted Senior's recent report about the Steelers' pursuit of Aiyuk.
"Another 'report' that couldn't be more incorrect," Wiliams shared on social media, directly responding to Senior's claim. "Fictional 'journalism' should really stop."
Another "report" that couldn't be more incorrect. Fictional "journalism" should really stop. https://t.co/jJWOJgNPi0
— Ryan Williams (@RyanWilliamsA1) April 18, 2024
The speculation surrounding Aiyuk's future will likely persist through Day 1 of next week's draft. If the first round concludes with Aiyuk still on the roster, it suggests the 49ers believe they can reach an agreement with the receiver before the upcoming season begins.
Aiyuk is under contract through the upcoming season, set to earn $14.124 million on a team-executed fifth-year option. While the 49ers can also use the franchise tag in future years, both parties likely prefer to secure a deal before Aiyuk returns to the field.
Coming off a career season where he accumulated a team-leading 1,342 receiving yards and seven touchdowns, Aiyuk is an ascending NFL talent. Last month, general manager John Lynch emphasized, "We want him to be a part of the Niners, so we're going to work towards making that a reality."