Brandon Aiyuk's Dramatic Near Trade to the Steelers Before His Contract Extension

Brandon Aiyuk Contract Extension and Trade Drama

Saying the San Francisco 49ers signed Brandon Aiyuk at the 11th hour may be the understatement of the year. During the Fox Sports broadcast for the NFL, Jay Glazer reported that a trade was just moments away from being finalized with the Pittsburgh Steelers. And by moments, we mean mere moments. Shortly after news of the Aiyuk deal broke, Adam Schefter reported that the agreement matched a previous offer from August 12.

Steelers and 49ers Negotiation Tension

Given Glazer's statements, credibility is lent to the ongoing speculation and negotiations. Schefter had faced criticism from Aiyuk's agent claiming that his report was factually inaccurate, but the mishap appears to revolve around the originally mentioned date. The urgency was palpable. This situation was down to the wire, showcasing a frantic Kyle Shanahan possibly getting a busy signal from the front office while attempting to halt the impending Steelers deal.

Future Implications for Aiyuk and 49ers

The Steelers' offers to the Niners were reportedly unsatisfactory, indicating a potential shift in strategy for San Francisco. Just days prior, rumors suggested both the Steelers and Washington Commanders might re-enter the discussions. With Aiyuk's extension now complete, the chapter could very well close on this saga, or it might just be the prologue to more developments.

This offseason storyline of the Brandon Aiyuk negotiations proves that only the 49ers could foster such suspense in the NFL's narrative.