San Francisco remains hopeful of securing Aiyuk with a contract extension, as an offer is still on the table. However, it's unclear how CeeDee Lamb's recent mega-deal with the Dallas Cowboys may have influenced Aiyuk's stance. He's determined to become one of the NFL's highest-paid wideouts—whether with the 49ers or another team. With Week 1 fast approaching, you have to wonder how much longer Aiyuk is willing to wait.
NFL insider Mike Garafolo addressed the situation during a segment on NFL Network's "Good Morning Football," stating that there's little progress to report on either Aiyuk or Trent Williams. Williams is holding out for a restructured deal, seeking more guaranteed money and likely a pay raise.
Many expected these issues to be resolved by now, but the prolonged delay has created a sense of urgency for the 49ers.
"We are still stuck in the mud here on Brandon Aiyuk, who is on the roster because he reported to training camp," Garafolo said. "Trent Williams, who I'll get to in a second, is not counting against the roster. So at this point, they get into the practice schedule this week and they're going to practice this afternoon.
"Sort of, the understanding was that at this point, he would practice, so we're going to have to see if he's on the field this afternoon with the San Francisco 49ers. But again, no closer to an extension or a trade there than we were the last couple of weeks.
"On to Trent Williams, who seems like he is intent on proving his point, that he deserves more guaranteed money and a raise on that contract, expected to make around $20 million this upcoming season. Perhaps he will carry that (the holdout) into the regular season."
Not having Aiyuk or Williams available for Week 1 against the New York Jets would be a significant blow to a 49ers team with Super Bowl aspirations.
NFL insider Josina Anderson recently shared that Williams is seeking to be compensated like one of the best offensive linemen in football. When he signed his current contract, it was the richest at his position. However, several players have since surpassed his annual salary, and Williams likely wants to rectify that.
"San Francisco is between a real rock and a hard place, because Trent is not playing around," a league source told Anderson. "Something may have to give, unless you're allowing for big adjustments next season."
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