Defensive end Nick Bosa experienced a lengthy contract dispute with the San Francisco 49ers last year, lasting until just days before Week 1. His teammate, Brandon Aiyuk, is now facing a similar situation, with the significant difference being that the 49ers are currently entertaining trade offers for the disgruntled receiver.
Bosa spoke to reporters after Tuesday's practice and was asked what the loss of Aiyuk might mean for the 49ers.
"I think it'd be huge," Bosa responded. "I trust John and Kyle, but he's a very tough player to replace."
Bosa refers to general manager John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan, the 49ers' brain trust, who is responsible for building and maintaining their competitive roster. Earlier in the offseason, the duo expressed confidence that a contract extension could be worked out with Aiyuk. However, reports now suggest that San Francisco has already worked out the frameworks of potential trades with the Cleveland Browns and New England Patriots and that the Pittsburgh Steelers have re-entered the trade discussions.
Aiyuk must decide whether to pursue more money with organizations like the Browns or Patriots or compete for a Super Bowl with the 49ers.
Unsatisfied with the lack of progress in the contract talks, Aiyuk requested a trade before reporting to training camp with his teammates. However, the receiver has refrained from participating in any on-field work during this stalemate.
"It's brutal, especially when you're here and you have that extra pressure on you," Bosa commented. "I've talked to him a few times, just as a friend, but when it comes to what's actually going on behind closed doors, I have no knowledge or input."
The hopeful Bosa added, "It'll get worked out."
Bosa acknowledged that the 49ers can be tough negotiators. He admitted that, toward the end, he had some doubts last year that his own contract talks would be resolved.
"As it got closer and closer, it gets pretty dicey, but I definitely didn't want to be traded," Bosa shared. "It's a good place to be, for sure. I'm very, very thankful and grateful to be paid here because I don't think there's many other organizations that are as good as this one."
