PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Steelers are aiming to acquire a veteran wide receiver via trade before the 2024 season. They have their eyes on San Francisco 49ers’ Brandon Aiyuk, leaving fans curious about the potential trade cost.
According to an inside source, the Steelers and 49ers are engaged in trade discussions. Although a deal isn’t immediate, the source indicated they would be surprised if it doesn’t happen. The sticking point is the trade compensation, with Pittsburgh firm on keeping the price low.
Given Aiyuk’s public comments on social media about his challenging negotiations with the 49ers, teams like the Steelers may have the upper hand in the trade talks. Pittsburgh is cautious about overpaying for a player who may not stay long-term with his current team.
The anticipated trade compensation might be around a second-round pick and possibly a late-round pick.
There’s also the issue of his contract. Although the Steelers don’t need to extend him this offseason, or even at all, they likely will. His expected salary is around $30 million per season after 2024.
The Steelers’ front office will handle the contract situation, focusing on negotiating with the 49ers to take on part of Aiyuk’s $14 million contract this season. This negotiation may result in Pittsburgh paying less than his full salary for his first season with the team.
The timeline for a deal remains uncertain, but the two teams are in contact. It could happen during the NFL Draft or afterward. Until Aiyuk signs a new contract with the 49ers, the possibility of him joining the Steelers remains strong.
