NFL insider reveals Steelers' contract offer for Brandon Aiyuk after Patriots' $30,000,000 gamble
The Brandon Aiyuk saga has been going on for the entire offseason. While his final destination is still a mystery, earlier reports have suggested that the wide receiver declined to link up with the New England Patriots. One NFL insider claimed this decision was a pricey one for Aiyuk.
The San Francisco 49ers tried their best to re-sign the WR, however, both parties failed to agree. As per Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer, the Niners offered Aiyuk a deal worth $28 million per year. This was in line with several other top WR deals that have been made across the league this offseason.
However, Brandon Aiyuk wanted more. As per Breer, the Patriots were ready to do so. The most successful franchise in the history of the league offered Aiyuk a deal in excess of $30 million per year. This contract would’ve made Aiyuk among the top five highest-paid WRs in the league, even if accounting for the $30 million deal’s lowest point, hence Patriots fans were unhappy with the decision.
Breer contended that it might be difficult for the Niners to match the number that Aiyuk is looking for. In contrast, his refusal to join the Patriots has been previously reported to not be a financial issue but a quality issue. The Patriots' head coach, Jerod Mayo, has vowed to fix it to attract talent in the future. However, they seemingly missed out on Aiyuk.
Brandon Aiyuk to Steelers faces problems
Earlier this week, it was reported that the Niners might receive two first-round picks in exchange for Aiyuk from the Steelers. However, a recent report from Athlon Sports indicated that the Niners are not happy with the offer received.
As per the report, not only do the Niners need top-round picks for Brandon Aiyuk, they also need a player; possibly a wide receiver. This hasn’t gone down well with the Steelers' front office as they’re looking only to give away draft picks.
While negotiations are still in place, several insiders and experts expect it is only a matter of time before the deal gets finalized.