Brandon Aiyuk predicts his next team jersey if 49ers deal doesn't pan out
Brandon Aiyuk wants a long-term extension from the San Francisco 49ers. But if it doesn't happen, he already has a couple of teams in mind.
Speaking Friday on The Pivot Podcast, the All-Pro wide receiver predicted which team he would suit up for in 2024. Of course, his first choice was the 49ers, but barring that, he had a backup plan and a backup to that plan.
"If not a Niners uniform, then probably a Washington Commanders' uniform," Aiyuk said. "If not a (Washington) Commanders' uniform, probably a (Pittsburgh) Steelers uniform." (45:59)
Given his history with new quarterback Jayden Daniels, the Commanders have been mooted as a possible destination for Aiyuk. The two were teammates at Arizona State for one season, and just last week, they were seen shopping together.
Meanwhile, co-host Ryan Clark heavily backed the idea of him joining the Steelers.
"They ain't got nobody but George Pickens," Clark said. "We got two new quarterbacks. We got a new offensive coordinator. ... You'd be a god."
Brandon Aiyuk's presence at Levi's Stadium raises speculation on new deal
But if Brandon Aiyuk's latest social media activity is any indication, the 49ers may have already decided on his future.
Just hours before the podcast episode aired, he streamed himself on Instagram, arriving at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara.
This followed a meeting he had on Monday with head coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch, which NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero described as "good" two days later on The Insiders:
"From what I was told, both sides said things that needed to be said, and they're going to keep working. ... There's never been a trade request from Brandon Aiyuk. That hasn't changed. The 49ers stance hasn’t changed either. Despite getting trade calls on Aiyuk going back to draft week, they’re moving forward and they want Aiyuk to be part of the team in 2024."
Pelissero added that both sides still had a good amount of time to decide their future together.
The team's summer practice begins on July 16, but Aiyuk and his fellow veterans will not report until a week later.